Last year, the GOP-dominated House twice passed bills to require women to wait 24 hours before receiving abortions. Neither ended up clearing the state senate. But with Democrats now controlling the House, this measure, which critics called theologically driven, was voted down 229-121. Rep. Sylvia Gale (D-Nashua) spoke for many when she told colleagues lawmakers should butt out when it comes to abortion.
"We should respect the rights and the ability of all NH women to make those most personal and complicated decisions about their pregnancy in consultation with the families, faith and health care professional without any legislative or political interference."
But supporters of the bill, and they included 97 Republicans and 24 Democrats, argued it aimed to provide “full disclosure” about abortion alternatives
.
