Topeka ? Senators gave tentative approval Thursday to a bill establishing minimum standards for abortion clinics amid criticism that legislators put politics over policy.

The measure, advanced on an unrecorded voice vote, would take the unusual step of writing into state law what facilities must be in place at licensed abortion clinics, such as space for dressing, counseling and interviews, as well as guidelines for lighting and ventilation.

Laws regulating hospitals and surgical centers are general, leaving the detail of regulation — including facility requirements — to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Under the bill, KDHE would be responsible for enforcing the new abortion clinic standards.

Final action on the bill was expected today. The House approved the bill earlier in the session, 84-39, but would have to consider Senate amendments.

Sen. Susan Wagle, R-Wichita, said the bill would protect the health of women during a difficult and crisis time in their lives. Wagle said abortion was unlike other procedures because of the lasting effects on women’s lives.

Wagle referred to a box of documents from malpractice litigation related to abortions performed in Kansas.

“Each one of these files has a name,” Wagle said.

However, Senate Vice President John Vratil, who spoke against the specific standards for abortion clinics, said all Kansans would be better served to set politics aside.

“That’s extremely difficult to do when abortion politics permeate this chamber,” said Vratil, R-Leawood. “I can feel it in the air.”

Others, including Sens. Nick Jordan, R-Olathe, and Jim Barnett, R-Emporia, said the bill reflected an effort to reach a compromise.

Barnett, a physician for more than 20 years, said targeting one medical procedure in a bill was the best way to make an impact. He called the bill “prudent and fair.”

Sen. David Haley, D-Kansas City, raised concerns that increased fees and requirements for abortion providers would force poor women to seek cheaper alternatives, leading to unsafe practices.