Pa. House eyes tougher abortion clinics standards

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — A measure to hold Pennsylvania abortion clinics to the same regulations as freestanding surgical centers is closer to a final vote in the state House after Republicans beat back a string of proposed amendments.

The House today defeated a series of amendments to the GOP-sponsored bill, and a final vote in the chamber could come as early as Wednesday.

The licensing bill is being proposed in reaction to the findings of a grand jury regarding filthy and unsafe conditions allegedly found inside a Philadelphia abortion clinic.

Democrats are warning that without changes to the bill many clinics will close, but all of the proposed amendments failed by wide margins.

Republicans say the tougher rules will protect the health of women patients.