The Pennsylvania House, using the horrific story of disgraced Dr. Kermit Gosnell, just passed a new bill last night, SB 732, that would effective shut down all abortion clinics in the state of Pennsylvania, by making ridiculous requirements like doubling the size of procedure rooms. Any and all amendments to make the bill less horrific from the Democrats were defeated by the GOP-controlled state House. The final bill passed 151-44, which means quite a few Democrats voted for it as well, as the GOP currently holds a 112-91 majority.
Proponents say the bill would enhance patient safety at the 20 clinics now operating. Opponents argue that clinics are being inspected regularly — unlike the Philadelphia clinic — and that there is no record of problems. They say imposing the surgical standards, which cover such things as the size of rooms and entrances, would unnecessarily drive up costs and may force some clinics to close.
"Let's not go back to the dark ages, when women were forced into the back alleys. Let's provide our constituents with access to safe, high-quality and affordable health care," said Rep. Phyllis Mundy, D-Luzerne.
Rep. Dan Frankel, D-Allegheny, said it was ironic that the bill is being touted as a way to protect women while anti-abortion groups are its main supporters. Meanwhile, he said several medical professional groups, including the Pennsylvania arm of the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, oppose it.
And then literally just minutes ago, the Pennsylvania Senate also passed the bill, 32-18. (The GOP controls the state senate, 30-20.) And yes, while some Democrats voted for it, remember that under Democratic control, this bill doesn't come up for a vote in the first place.
Governor Tom Corbett (R) has said he would sign this bill into law.
And so it begins in Pennsylvania as well. This is what happens when Republicans control both the executive and legislative branches of government.