BISMARCK, N.D. (AP  Mar 11, 2013) – The North Dakota Legislature is slated this week to tackle some of the weightiest issues of the session – including the controversial topic of whether to expand Medicaid. The measure will be a tough sell to Senate Republicans, who have two-thirds control of the chamber. North Dakota’s Medicaid program now covers about 65,000 people a month.

 The Legislature this week is expected to take action on a package of measures aim at strengthening the state’s strict abortion laws. Senators will consider a bill that would ban doctors from performing an abortion if a fetal heartbeat is detected. The Senate also will review a bill that would prevent abortions based on gender selection or a genetic defect.