Budget writers in the South Carolina Senate have nixed House plans to end state health insurance plan coverage for abortions stemming from rape or incest.
The 12-6 vote on Thursday came as the Senate Finance Committee resumed work on what's become a $4.9 billion state spending plan.
The House in a marathon session last month ended state health insurance plan for abortions unless they are needed to protect a mother's health.
Republican Sen. Kevin Bryant of Anderson voted against the change and said allowing abortions for rape or incest would put blood on every taxpayer's hands.
Others argued the exceptions for rape, incest and the mother's health in the current law are consistent with what federal law allows.
Email
Facebook
Google
Twitter
Favorites
More
Advertisement