Senate Committee Advances 20-Week Abortion Bill

LITTLE ROCK, AR - A Senate committee says "yes" to banning abortion after 20 weeks in Arkansas.

Representative Andy Mayberry (R-Hensley) already got his bill through the House of Representatives, but the Senate proved to be a tougher challenge.

Mayberry changed his bill Wednesday to still allow abortions after 20-weeks in cases of rape and incest.

Roe v. Wade 40 years ago established 24 weeks as viability for an infant but Mayberry says modern scientific research indicates a fetus can feel pain at 20-weeks.

However, it was pointed out in committee that the research is controversial.

HB1037 advanced on a voice vote and moves to the Senate floor for a vote Monday.

Governor Mike Beebe tells FOX16 News he still has constitutional concerns with the legislation but has not decided whether he will use his veto power next week.