SC Bill: Women Must Wait A Day Before An Abortion

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - Women seeking an abortion in South Carolina would have to wait at least 24 hours after their ultrasound under a bill given initial approval by a House subcommittee.

The measure would increase the waiting time from an hour to a day. Legislators forwarded it Wednesday to the full House Judiciary Committee.

Last year, legislators passed a bill requiring that women be given the option of viewing the ultrasound. The compromise was approved after more than a year of debate over whether to require a woman to view the image before an abortion.

Chester GOP Rep. Greg Delleney says his latest measure puts South Carolina in line with other states with waiting periods.

Opponents say requiring two trips creates a burden, especially for poor, rural women.