Abortion statistics bill headed to governor

FILE PHOTO

SALT LAKE CITY (AP) – A proposal that requires that Utah to collect more information about abortions that take place in the state is on its way to the governor.

The House and Senate gave final approval to legislation Tuesday that requires the state Department of Health to deliver an annual report on abortions in Utah to lawmakers.

Republican Sen. Margaret Dayton of Orem says the state already collects some data from physicians as part of a federal requirement, but this would provide lawmakers more information when considering any future abortion laws.

The report would include the number of abortions performed, how far along the pregnancy was when the abortion was performed, and the race and ethnicity of women undergoing the procedure.

Opponents say the legislation is an intrusion by government into private life.

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