Judge Blocks Florida's 24-hour Abortion Waiting Period

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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (CBSMiami/AP) — A Florida judge blocked a 24-hour waiting period for abortions amid a controversial legal battle.

Circuit Judge Charles Dodson on Thursday sided with lawyers representing a Gainesville clinic challenging the law. The law took effect on July 1st despite the lawsuit.

Lawyers representing the clinic argued the new law is causing "irreparable harm." They said 14 women were unable to obtain abortions at the Gainesville clinic the first day the law was on the books. Lawyers for the state argued there is no need for an injunction and said the new requirement does not block access to abortions.

Judge Charles Francis agreed to block the law two days earlier. But state officials quickly appealed the decision. Under court rules that placed an automatic stay on the decision.

Dodson agreed to reinstate Francis's order. He said that it was unlikely state officials would win their appeal.

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