RICHMOND, Va. --

Virginia lawmakers are considering a proposal that would require painkillers be administered to fetuses before abortions are performed.

Delegate Dick Black, a Republican from Loudoun County, Va., introduced the measure. The plan (House Bill 1315) will be considered by the House of Delegates' Courts of Justice Committee on Monday.

The Senate takes up a similar measure on Thursday.

"We must do everything possible to relieve the terror and suffering of children as they are aborted," said Black in a statement released to the media.

Black's bill would apply to any abortion performed after the 12th week of pregnancy.

The bill is enjoying support in the Virginia General Assembly with more than 50 delegates and 15 senators acting as co-sponsors of the measure. The sponsors are mostly Republicans but the plan does have bipartisan support.

Under the plan, abortion doctors who do not administer the painkiller could face criminal charges.

Track Progress Of Virginia Assembly Bills