Wisconsin Senate approves 20-week abortion ban bill

MADISON -- The Wisconsin Senate has advanced a fast-tracked bill that would ban non-emergency abortions after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

The Republican-controlled Senate passed the measure Tuesday night on a 19-14 vote on party lines. Republicans voted in favor while Democrats voted against. Senators debated for three hours prior to taking a vote.

The bill's supporters say a 20-week-old fetus can feel pain and shouldn't be subject to abortion procedures. Opponents contend that a fetus can't experience pain until after the third trimester begins at 27 weeks.

Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos hasn't said yet when the Assembly will take up the measure.

Governor Scott Walker has said he would sign the bill.