Kentucky legislators have approved their first bill of 2016

The legislation defines “informed consent” for women who are seeking an abortion in the Commonwealth. The current law requires women to speak with a doctor at least 24 hours before the procedure, but allows for the consultation to occur over the phone. This new legislation requires those meetings to happen in person or via video conference. The Kentucky branch of the American Civil Liberties Union has released a statement, saying that adding video conferencing does not make the legislation neutral or non-burdensome. A spokesperson for Governor Bevin’s office said he intends to sign the bill.