I strongly support the current regulations and urge the Board of Health to make them permanent. They represent reasonable, common-sense measures to ensure that life-saving equipment is on hand, infections are prevented, and clear written policies and building guidelines are in place at abortion facilities.

Health inspectors documented multiple health and safety violations in these facilities, and most had to submit plans of correction in order to receive provisional licensure. Women seeking abortions are often vulnerable and benefit from the protection that these regulations aim to provide.

While I do not believe that abortion is medical care because it ends life rather than saving it, I know that the abortion industry existing under the name of "health care" is a sad reality. I support the proposed regulation that enforce strong standards for the abortion facilities in Virginia because we must protect the health and safety women seeking abortions.