RICHMOND (WSLS 10) - The State Board of Health voted to adopt revised regulations for licensure of healthcare facilities that provide abortion.
The revisions scale back regulations on Virginia abortion clinics that critics say were driven by politics, not science.
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On Thursday, the board voted 9-6 to give preliminary approval to amendments to the regulations. The most noteworthy revision would exempt existing clinics from strict new-hospital construction standards, reversing a decision made by the board when it was dominated by appointees of former Republican Gov. Bob McDonnell.
The board also rolled back some construction standards for new facilities.
Last year, Governor Terry McAuliffe ordered the board to revisit the regulations. His appointees now make up a majority of the 15-member board.
Attorney General Mark Herring issued a statement, applauding the vote:
Today was a good day for Virginia women whose reproductive rights have been attacked too often in recent years. This vote is a critical step in ensuring that Virginia women can make their own healthcare decisions and safely access the full range of services they need in the communities where they live. This regulatory process is being driven by medical professionals working with solid, correct legal advice, and the Board's decisions reflect a commitment to the law, patient safety, and the highest ethical standards. I appreciate the Board's hard work and commitment to getting this right, and Governor McAuliffe's prudent decision to initiate the periodic review that led to these revised regulations."
Governor McAuliffe echoed Herring's statement, saying:
This Commonwealth should be a leader in bringing people together and building a new Virginia economy – not in partisan crusades against women's rights."
The amendment goes on to AG Herring's office for review and approval. After that, there will be a 60-day public comment period before it's final.
The Associated Press contributed to this article.Â