Panel vets Nevada bill on parental notification for abortion

CARSON CITY — Nevada lawmakers are reviewing a proposal requiring parental notification before a minor can receive an abortion.

The Assembly Judiciary Committee held a hearing Friday to discuss AB405, which is sponsored by Republican Assembly Speaker John Hambrick. He said earlier this week that the idea would be downgraded to a study, but Republican leaders said the decision was reversed after caucus members urged a full hearing.

The bill would require physicians to send a written notification to parents or guardians of a minor seeking an abortion and requires a 48-hour wait time before the procedure.

Proponents say the measure would involve parents in a major medical decision.

Opponents say the bill could harm girls who have abusive parents or fear being evicted from their home if they tell their family.