12-Week Abortion Ban Bill Advances in Arkansas Senate

LITTLE ROCK, AR - A Senate committee advanced a bill Wednesday banning abortion after 12 weeks.

The "fetal heartbeat" bill already passed both chambers at the Arkansas Legislature but is moving back through the Senate because of amendments made when it advanced through the House.

The Senate Public Health committee passed the amended version of SB 134 on a voice vote. A roll call vote revealed 5-2 support in the eight-person committee.

The Senate is expected to vote on the bill Thursday.

Governor Mike Beebe has indicated he would likely veto the measure when it arrives on his desk.