A controversial bill in the Florida Legislature would give women more time to sue doctors after an abortion.

  • Florida may make it easier to sue doctors over abortions
  • Bill to allow lawsuits up to 10 years following abortion

The bill, which would give women more time to sue physicians for physical or emotional injuries stemming from abortions was narrowly approved on Wednesday. 

According to the Associated Press, most legal claims from medical procedures must be filed within four years, but this bill would allow lawsuits to be filed for up to 10 years after the abortion. 

Rep. Erin Grall (R-Vero Beach) said the bill will help women who may not understand all the consequences of an abortion because they weren't properly informed before they consented to the procedure. 

However, Dr. Douglas Murphy, an Ocala-based obstetrician, called the measure "punitive." 

"The bill seeks to intimidate physicians who perform abortions," Murphy said, who added that he doesn't perform abortions as part of his practice. 

The bill was approved 9-7 in the House Health Care Quality subcommittee. 

The legislation has one more stop before it reaches the full House. 

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.