COLUMBIA, S.C. - A fetus would have rights to due process and equal protection under a bill passed by the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday.

The measure, which passed on a 15-5 vote, would establish that rights begin "at fertilization."

The bill was sponsored by Rep. Ralph Davenport, R-Boiling Springs.

Opponents warned the bill likely would be declared unconstitutional and is counter to the landmark 1973 U.S. Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion.

A similar bill died in the committee last year.