After an emotional and contentious debate, the Georgia House voted 93-73 late Thursday to approve legislation that would outlaw most abortions after a doctor can detect a heartbeat in the womb.
The measure would be among the most restrictive in the country and abortion rights advocates have vowed to challenge the legislation in court if it becomes law.
A heartbeat is usually detected in a woman’s sixth week of pregnancy. Current Georgia law allows abortions up to 20 weeks.
It was a near party-line vote with most Republicans voting in favor of the legislation and most Democrats voting against it.
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» Photos: Crossover Day at the Georgia Legislature
Republican state Reps. Deborah Silcox of Sandy Springs and Butch Parrish of Swainsboro voted against the measure. Democratic state Rep. Mack Jackson, a preacher from Sandersville, supported the bill.
And eleven House members were either excused or didn’t vote — eight Republicans and three Democrats.
See the full list of who voted for and against the legislation, known as the "heartbeat bill," here.
The measure now goes to the Senate for its consideration.
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