CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Wyoming House of Representatives debated and ultimately advanced a bill that would impose a mandatory 48-hour waiting period on abortions Monday night.

WyoFile reported that the vote happened in the final hour, less than two hours before the midnight deadline to debate bills on the floor. Opponents of the bill took issue with the timing of the debate, including Rep. Mike Yin (D, Jackson).

“We’re debating one of the most socially contentious issues of the state. I just want to display my disappointment in us dealing with this bill at 10 p.m. at night on a budget session,” Yin said.

If passed, HB-197 would require doctors to wait at least 48 hours after informing their patient about the procedure to actually perform the procedure. Doctors who violate the 48-hour waiting period could face felony charges and up to 10 years in prison. Proponents of the bill say it will give patients more time to seriously consider their decision.

There are only two abortion providers in the state, and only one performs surgical abortions. Both providers are in Jackson.

According to WyoFile, the House advanced the bill on a voice vote without a count. It now faces two more votes in the House.

Shannon is a Wyoming-raised writer and reporter. She just completed a master's in journalism from Boston University. Jackson shaped her into an outdoorswoman, but a love for language and the human condition compels her to write. She believes there's no story too small to tell nor adventure too small to take.