Federal judge says he's uncomfortable with abortion law

MADISON (AP) — A federal judge says he's concerned that a Wisconsin law that requires abortion providers to get hospital admitting privileges is inflexible.

U.S. District Judge William Conley made the remarks Friday as he wrapped up a week-long bench trial to gather information in a lawsuit challenging the mandate. Planned Parenthood and Affiliated Medical Services contend the requirement will force AMS's Milwaukee clinic to close because providers there can't get admitting privileges. They contend the closure would unconstitutionally restrict access to abortion in Wisconsin.

State attorneys counter the requirement will ensure better patient care.

Conley says he's troubled the law required providers to get privileges within three days of its enactment and could dampen clinic's efforts to recruit new providers.

He's not expected to issue a ruling for at least six weeks.