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After weeks of controversy over a Virginia bill that would force women seeking an abortion to have an ultrasound, it looks like Gov. Bob McDonnell is having second thoughts about signing it into law.

According to the Post, McDonnell has stepped back from his promise to sign the bill if it crosses his desk. Additionally, reports AFP, yesterday the House of Delegates put off a third and final vote on the legislation after a day of protests in Richmond.

The most controversial aspect of the law is how the ultrasound, which would not be optional, would be carried out. According to an article by Slate’s Dahlia Lithwick last week, the use of the foot-long probe for the transvaginal procedure of no medical necessity would constitute rape under the federal definition of the crime. Additionally, critics noted, if a woman chooses not to look at the ultrasound, that fact will be noted in her medical record.

According to the Richmond Times-Dispatch, the national controversy is making Virginia legislators uncomfortable:

The postponements come as the Republican-led legislature swelters in the heat of the national spotlight, focused primarily on abortion issues.

“They are freaked out by the (ultrasound) bill and the reaction it’s gotten across the country,” said Del. Mark D. Sickles, D-Fairfax. “I think they’re probably trying to figure out a media strategy to figure out a way to get off the front pages.”

Del. C. Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah, said the House delayed the votes so that the bills could all be debated on the same day.

One alternative being discussed, according to the AFP, is making the ultrasounds optional.

Beyond this law, the Virginia Senate has yet to take up a bill that would grant fertilized eggs the same rights as people in the commonwealth. It remains to be seen if the closely divided Senate buckles under the weight of the national limelight; it recently voted down a proposal that would ban all abortions after 20 weeks.