Md. considers new abortion regulations

Maryland plans to monitor its abortion clinics more closely. The state health department has drafted regulations that would require surgical abortion clinics in the state to apply for a license to operate. The regulations are in response to the discovery that Dr. Steven Brigham was starting late-term abortions in New Jersey and sending patients to Maryland to finish the procedures, the Associated Press reports. The draft Maryland regulations would require that clinics be subject to inspection, show that they have qualified anesthesia providers and develop emergency plans should procedures go awry. A clinic staff member would have to be available 24 hours a day for emergencies. — Liz [email protected]