ARLINGTON, Va. (WUSA) -- Abortion rights supporters in Virginia are cheering after they won a small, first step in a challenge to strict, new state regulations that require abortion clinics meet hospital standards.
An Arlington judge rejected a motion from Attorney General Ken Cuccinelli and the Virginia Board of Health seeking to toss out a legal challenge to the regulations. It means the case will now move forward.
"Whoa!" Cheered Rosemary Codding, director of the Falls Church Healthcare Center (FCHC) which brought the lawsuit, technically called an appeal. Codding said the ruling gave her immense hope.
"It's just like the turning tide. It has been such an oppressive environment for three years for women's health. This is an immense spiritual uplifting. And, as a woman of very strong faith, I know God is with me. And I know that he has given me courage to continue in this battle," said Codding.