NASHVILLE (AP) - Dozens of abortion rights supporters have held a protest near the state Capitol in Nashville to decry legislative efforts to enact new restrictions.
At the same time the protesters beat drums, waved signs and listened to speeches outside the legislative office complex, lawmakers who oppose abortion rights held a press conference inside the building to announce their plans to enact similar laws struck down by a 2000 state Supreme Court decision.
In last November's election, voters ratified a ballot measure that overturned the court ruling that abortion was protected by the Tennessee Constitution as part of a woman's fundamental right to privacy.
That ruling had struck down the enforcement of state laws on mandatory counseling, a waiting period and clinic regulations.