SPRINGFIELD (AP) — Some Illinois lawmakers are seeking to require annual inspections for all the state’s abortion clinics. The push comes more than three years after officials took steps to reinforce the system following a report by The Associated Press that some facilities had gone 15 years without an inspection.

Proponents argue the measure would keep women safer. But critics say it is a veiled effort to restrict women’s access to the procedure.

The idea is being pushed by anti-abortion activists who say more frequent inspections are needed.

State officials say they now carry out inspections of most clinics every three or four years, which they insist is enough.

Abortion rights advocates believe the measure would burden a burden on smaller clinics. They say it could force some to shut down.