Victorian independent MP Geoff Shaw will make a trip to the United States, partly funded by taxpayers, as he works to re-draft Victoria's abortion laws.
The former Liberal MP, who took the balance of power in Victoria's lower house when he turned independent last year, plans a private member's bill before the November state election to outlaw gender-selection and late-term abortions.
The bill would also introduce a requirement for doctors to resuscitate babies who survive abortion attempts.
Mr Shaw says he wants to take a two-week trip to the US states of California, Nevada, Ohio, Georgia and New York to investigate abortion laws there as he prepares his bill.
He will also examine light rail options, having criticised the cost of the Victorian government's airport rail link.
Mr Shaw told Fairfax newspapers that he will pay for accommodation, meals and flights in the US but the government will pay for his flight to and from the US.
"As an independent I've got to be looking at legislation," he said.
"Every state is different. Some are pro-life. In Ohio, for example, they suggest life starts when a doctor hears a heart beat. Others suggest life begins at conception."
On Thursday, both Premier Denis Napthine and Labor leader Daniel Andrews said they would not support any debate on or changes to the state's abortion laws.
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