NASHVILLE (AP) — With the passage of a constitutional amendment that gives Tennessee lawmakers more power to restrict abortion, they are planning to do just that.
Although Tennessee has some restrictions, the state lacks the mandatory counseling and waiting periods that are in place in all eight states that share its border.
That's because in 2000, the Tennessee Supreme Court ruled that the constitution protected abortion.
With the constitution now amended, lawmakers say they are preparing to introduce a host of new laws. Proposals include counseling, waiting periods, new clinic regulations and ultrasound requirements.
Abortion rights advocates say the changes are likely to make abortions more difficult and expensive to obtain but likely won't shut off access entirely.