Scott approves abortion 24-hour waiting period bill

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) – Women will have to wait 24 hours before having an abortion under a new Florida law.

Republican Gov. Rick Scott signed the bill Wednesday along with more than 50 other pieces of legislation. Republican lawmakers who supported the bill said they hope the reflective period will help some women decide not to terminate their pregnancies.

The law goes into effect July 1.

The law does provide exceptions for victims of incest, rape, domestic abuse or human trafficking.

Opponents have said women have already thought carefully about their decision before obtaining an abortion and the waiting period will only add an extra burden on an already emotion procedure.