Gov. Perry signs sweeping abortion restrictions

(AP) Gov. Perry signs sweeping abortion restrictions
By WILL WEISSERT
Associated Press
AUSTIN, Texas
Texas Gov. Rick Perry has signed sweeping new abortion regulations that threaten the existence of most clinics in the state.

The Republican signed legislation Thursday that had sparked weeks of protests at the state Capitol.

The new law bans abortions after the 20th week of pregnancy and dictates when abortion-inducing drugs can be taken. But it also requires abortion clinic doctors to have hospital admitting privileges and restricts abortions to surgical centers.

Only five of Texas’ 42 abortion clinics currently meet the new requirements. The law takes effect in October.

Republicans initially failed to pass the bill last month because of a Democratic senator’s lengthy filibuster and a raucous crowd. They passed it last week after Perry called another special legislative session.

Protesters outside Thursday’s ceremony had signs reading, “Shame.”