Maine bill proposing one of country’s least restrictive abortion laws narrowly clears House vote

By DAVID SHARP
Associated Press

A proposal to expand access to abortions narrowly passed in the Maine House, clearing the first legislative hurdle after an emotional floor debate. The 74-72 vote late Thursday was closer than expected after at least one Democratic co-sponsor had a change of heart, joining lawmakers opposed to the proposal that would give the state one of the least restrictive abortion laws in the country. The proposal would allow abortions any time before birth if deemed necessary by a medical provider. Current state law bans abortions after a fetus becomes viable outside the womb, at roughly 24 weeks. The bill moves next to the Maine Senate for consideration.