House Democrats in Illinois have advanced a measure to replace the state's abortion law with less restrictive language that gives people 'a fundamental right' to make decisions about their reproductive health.

The State Journal-Register reports a House committee approved the legislation late Sunday on a party-line vote, sending it to the House floor. All committee Republicans voted no.

Among other provisions, the bill requires private health insurance companies that cover pregnancy-related benefits to cover abortion.

A measure moving to the floor of the Illinois state House would declare a 'fundamental right' to an abortion

Supporters say the measure is necessary to counter other states' action to restrict abortion procedures and the appointment of U.S. Supreme Court justices who oppose abortion.

Republicans criticized Democrats, who control the Legislature and the governor's office, for holding the hearing on the Sunday night of a holiday weekend and posting notice just one hour before the hearing.

Under the measure, reproductive health would be declared a 'fundamental right.'

Women would have the right to 'use or refuse reproductive health care' during their pregancy.

Women in Chicago protested the sweeping abortion bans. At Daley Plaza and in front of Trump Tower. After several states passed restrictive abortion bans

Women in Chicago protested the sweeping abortion bans. The state House is moving to take up a measure to loosen existing law

The action in Illinois follows actions to restrict abortion in Republican-leaning states

The bill also expands opportunities to sue if they believe their rights are denied

The action in Democratic-leaning Illinois follows actions in a series of Republican states to limit access to abortion.

A woman would gain additional routes to sue if she believes her rights are violated, the Chicago Sun-Times reported. And local governments would be barred from limiting access to contraception and health procedures, although they could pass rules that increase access to care.

A new Alabama law would make it a felony to perform most abortions, and doctors who carry them out could face sentences of up to 99 years in prison.