Abortion Notice Requirement Sparks Colorado Debate

DENVER (AP) -- A Democratic proposal for Colorado hospitals with religious objections to certain procedures such as abortion has sparked an intense debate over government's role in health care.

The state Senate gave tentative approval Friday to a bill requiring hospitals to give patients notice of any service not provided because of moral or religious objections. That could include abortions or sexual health procedures such as tubal ligations or vasectomies.

Democrats called the requirement a measure to improve transparency. Republicans argued some hospitals were being singled out for their religious beliefs. Republicans pointed out hospitals wouldn't be required to disclose procedures they don't perform for reasons unrelated to religion.

One more vote in the Democratic Senate is required before the bill goes to the GOP House.

(© Copyright 2012 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)