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Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Ind. Gov't. - "Abortion bill could pass today: Pact to cut off state funds to Planned Parenthood clears way"

Heather Gillers of the Indianapolis Star has the story in today's paper. Some quotes from the long story:

The state legislature could take its final vote on a major abortion bill as early as today -- sending it to the governor's desk -- after the bill's author signed off on a final version Tuesday.

Rep. Eric Turner, R-Cicero, late Tuesday agreed to Senate changes to the bill, including a new provision cutting off taxpayer funding to Planned Parenthood of Indiana. That means the two houses will not have to hash out a compromise.

The agreement brushes aside concerns raised by the state Family and Social Services Administration that defunding Planned Parenthood could result in the loss of $4 million in federal funds. Planned Parenthood officials say they will seek an injunction if the bill becomes law.

House Bill 1210 also would shorten the window during which women could have abortions to 20 weeks, as well as require doctors to tell patients that abortion is linked to infertility and that fetuses can feel pain at or before 20 weeks.

The House approved the bill 72-23 last month. The Senate passed it 35-13 last week after adding the provision to defund Planned Parenthood of Indiana.

If the bill becomes law, Indiana would be the first state to bar low-income patients from using their Medicaid benefits at Planned Parenthood.

In other words, more than likely the House will vote today to concur in the Senate changes.

See this April 25th ILB entry headed "Planned Parenthood funding fight may force Gov. Daniels to choose between social, fiscal conservatism." That looks likely now.

Gov. Daniels could sign the bill, let it become law without his signature, or veto.

What if he vetoes? In Indiana, overriding a veto takes only a majority vote of each house. But since the General Assembly will adjourn sine die on Friday, it would not be able to act on override until the General Assembly reconvenes. What is the likelihood of an override? I'd say 100%; just look at the list of House and Senate members who signed on to coauthors and cosponsors.

The third option, allowing the bill to become law without his signature (i.e. by inaction) seems an unlikely choice for Daniels.

Posted by Marcia Oddi on April 27, 2011 09:03 AM
Posted to Indiana Government