The Latest: Ohio ‘heartbeat’ abortion bill heads to governor

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Latest on the “heartbeat bill” that would ban abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected. (all times local):

10:15 p.m.

An Ohio bill that would clear the way for what would be one of the nation’s most stringent abortion restrictions is on its way to the governor.

Lawmakers in the Republican-controlled state House voted Tuesday night to approve the so-called “heartbeat bill.” It passed in the Senate earlier in the day.

The legislation would prohibit most abortions as early as six weeks into pregnancy after the first detectable heartbeat.

Similar measures elsewhere have faced legal challenges, and detractors in Ohio fear such legislation will lead to a costly fight in the courts. Opponents predict it will be found unconstitutional if it becomes law.

Republican Gov. John Kasich, an abortion opponent, has previously voiced concerns about whether such a move is constitutional.

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3:50 p.m.

Lawmakers in Ohio’s state Senate have approved banning abortions once a fetal heartbeat can be detected.

The so-called “heartbeat bill” approved Tuesday would result in what would be one of the most stringent abortion restrictions in America.

The legislation would prohibit most abortions as early as six weeks into pregnancy after the first detectable heartbeat.

Similar measures have faced legal challenges elsewhere and detractors in Ohio fear it will lead to a costly fight in the courts. Opponents are predicting it will be found unconstitutional if it becomes law.

The measure now goes back to the Republican-controlled Ohio House where it has been approved in earlier attempts that had failed to gain traction in the Senate.