RICHMOND, Va. (AP) - Revised abortion clinic regulations that include strict building standards have been certified by Gov. Bob McDonnell.
The McDonnell certified the regulations on Dec. 28. Following a 60-day public comment period, the regulations will go back to the state Board of Health for a final vote. The board approved the regulations in September.
The new regulations require abortion clinics to meet the same strict building standards as new hospitals.
Abortion-rights advocates argue that the strict standards could force most of Virginia's 20 clinics out of business.
McDonnell spokesman Tucker Martin says the governor believes the regulations will help ensure the safety and well-being of patients.
Existing clinics will half until the latter half of 2014 to comply with the new regulations.
