A controversial bill limiting abortion rights in Tennessee passed through the state Senate on Monday afternoon, the first major hurdle for the bill that will likely become law.
The "Tennessee Infant Protection Act" would limit abortions after 20 weeks if a doctor determines a woman's fetus to be viable. But the bill did not pass without contentious debate both inside and outside the Senate chambers.
"Any woman that has an abortion can have one every day, this just protects infants who might have a chance at life," Senator Hensley said.
Democrats though questioned the constitutionality of the bill.
"I think this will lead to more abortions in Tennessee, it will force families and their doctors to have a conversation much earlier if they're dealing with a risk," Democrat Jeff Yarbro said.
The 20 week abortion bill passed the Senate by a 27 to three vote and will now be up for a vote on the House floor.
