Minnesota senators have rejected a measure that would have led to twice yearly inspections and $10,200 licensing fees for clinics that provide 10 or more abortions per month.
Friday's 32-29 vote establishes a chamber position as senators head into budget negotiations with the Republican-led House, which has abortion law changes in its health care bill. The vote saw four Democrats join a unified Republican Senate caucus in the unsuccessful effort.
Sen. Tony Lourey, DFL-Kerrick, argued against the amendment to a health budget bill, saying health clinics of all kinds are already subject to licensure rules and the change would improperly single out those that provide abortions.
Sen. Michelle Benson, R-Ham Lake, said clinics that conduct abortions should be held to a higher standard.
ASSOCIATED PRESS
