First state adopts US ban on abortion

Indiana has become the first state in the US to pass new legislation restricting access to abortions since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v Wade.

The ban, which takes effect on September 15, includes some exceptions. Abortions would be permitted in cases of rape and incest, before 10-weeks postfertilisation; to protect the life and physical health of the mother; and if a fetus is diagnosed with a lethal anomaly.

Victims of rape and incest would not be required to sign a notarised affidavit attesting to an attack, as previously proposed in the Senate. Under the bill, abortions can be performed only in hospitals or outpatient centres owned by hospitals.