Should hospitals be required to give abortion providers admitting privileges?

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A federal judge is about to start weighing whether a Wisconsin law requiring abortion providers to get admitting privileges at nearby hospitals is constitutional.

Planned Parenthood and Affiliated Medical Services filed a lawsuit in July arguing the law would force abortion clinics in Appleton and Milwaukee to close because providers at the facilities lack admitting privileges.

The Appleton providers have since gained privileges. The organizations still contend the law would force the AMS facility to close, placing a burden on women seeking abortions.

State attorneys argue the law ensures continuity of care if complications arise and a woman goes to a hospital.

U.S. District Judge William Conley is scheduled to begin a bench trial on Tuesday. Proceedings are expected to last until at least Friday.