The state of Alaska is enacting new regulations for abortions following a lawsuit by abortion-rights advocates.
Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest and the Hawaiian Islands sued the state, arguing that existing regulations restrict access to second-trimester abortions.
The new regulations, adopted by the state medical board, take effect July 19.
They repeal a requirement that a doctor consult with another doctor before performing an abortion after the 12th week of gestation.
They also state that an abortion may only be performed at a hospital with a neonatal intensive care unit after a doctor determines a fetus is deemed viable.
The lawsuit has been on hold pending final action by the medical board.
Katie Rogers, a Planned Parenthood spokeswoman, says the organization had no immediate comment on the rules.
