Houston Chronicle by Taylor Goldenstein May 18, 2019
Republicans in the Texas House passed a bill barring local governments from funding or partnering with abortion providers and affiliates late Friday, fending off Democrats’ efforts to block or temper the legislation.
Senate Bill 22, sponsored by Sen. Donna Campbell, R-New Braunfels, would ban governmental entities from engaging in transactions — such as a sale, purchase, lease or donation — with organizations that provide abortions, such as Planned Parenthood, or their affiliates. It also prohibits advocacy or lobbying on their behalf.
The bill passed 81-65 Friday with only State Rep. Sarah Davis, R-Houston, breaking with her party to vote in opposition. It would not apply to basic public services, such as fire and police protection, or certain health institutions, including licensed hospitals.
It will now likely go back to the Senate for a final vote before being forwarded to Gov. Greg Abbott to be signed into law.
Democrats, many of whom sported pink scarves, stalled Friday’s vote for nearly eight hours with amendments and objections. They say the bill would reduce women’s access to health care, such as sexually transmitted disease and cancer screenings.
More:
https://www.houstonchronicle.com/news/politics/texas/article/Texas-House-passes-bill-blocking-abortion-13855642.php
