Wisconsin Governor Signs Restrictive Abortion Legislation Into Law

Wisconsin governor Scott Walker

Wisconsin governor Scott Walker joined the GOP's political offensive against abortion today. He signed legislation that compels doctors who provide abortion services to have hospital admitting privileges within 30 miles of the practitioner's abortion clinic. The practical effect of the law is to diminish the availability of abortion facilities within the Badger State. The Wisconsin action is similar to recent initiatives in Texas and North Carolina.

According to a report in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Walker signed the legislation in a private ceremony on a slow holiday news day. The legislation was passed by both houses of the Wisconsin state government along party lines. The GOP holds majorities in both houses.