Senate Rejects Fee, Inspection Rule For Abortion Clinics

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Minnesota senators have turned back 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.

Democratic Sen. Tony Lourey 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.

Republican Sen. Michelle Benson says clinics that conduct abortions should be held to a higher standard.