States consider abortion restrictions

WASHINGTON, April 6 (UPI) -- Measures to restrict abortions are being considered by legislatures in more than 30 states, a U.S. abortion rights group said.

Policy Director Donna Crane of NARAL Pro-Choice America said the move can be traced to the November election, USA Today reported Wednesday.

"What's different this year is that, as a result of the election, there are a lot more anti-abortion state legislators," Crane said, adding her organization is monitoring 362 abortion bills.

Republican gains in the 2010 election gave the party control of both chambers in 26 states while Democrats hold just 15.

Idaho's legislature approved a ban on most abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy Tuesday while a committee in the Florida Senate passed a bill this week requiring ultrasounds before abortions.

Mary Spaulding Balch of the National Right to Life Committee told USA Today abortion bills "are moving in states where they haven't before."

Balch attributes the action to new lawmakers of both parties who share her organization's goal of providing "protection for the unborn child."

"We are absolutely certain that this is not what Americans voted for in November 2010," Crane said.