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Bill To Punish Crimes Against Pregnant Women OK'd

DENVER (AP) — A bill creating new penalties for crimes against pregnant women in Colorado received final approval from lawmakers and now heads to the governor for a decision.

The measure would create new felony charges for unlawful termination of a pregnancy. Most states have laws specifically dealing with how to punish people who harm pregnant women, resulting in the loss of a fetus.

The proposal has been a heated one for years in Colorado. Republicans argue there should also be penalties in place for offenses against fetuses.

Supporters of the bill insist they're trying to avoid a fight over abortion, and focus on creating a new law to properly punish crimes against pregnant women.

The Senate approved the bill Friday.

(© Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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