Health chief in Virginia resigning because state's new abortion rules

RICHMOND, Va. – Virginia's health commissioner says she is resigning because of the state's strict new regulations for abortion clinics.

Karen Remley submitted her resignation to Gov. Bob McDonnell on Thursday. Her resignation is effective immediately.

Remley said in the letter that issues surrounding the development and enforcement of the clinic regulations have created an environment that compromises her ability to fulfill her duties. She did not elaborate.

The state Board of Health adopted regulations last month that require existing abortion clinics in Virginia to meet the same construction standards as new hospitals. Abortion-rights advocates argued the strict standards could force most clinics out of business.