Florida Senate rejects bill requiring ultrasounds before abortions

TALLAHASSEE - After 90 minutes of emotional debate, a splintered Florida Senate on Wednesday killed a bill that would have forced women to undergo ultrasound exams before getting an abortion — a requirement critics condemned as unconstitutional.

The measure's sponsor, Sen. Daniel Webster, R- Winter Garden, had forecast the chances of passage were 50-50. The bill died on a 20-20 tie.

In his final plea to senators, Webster insisted the proposal was needed.

"Good medical practice dictates screening," said Webster, a prominent social conservative ending his 28-year legislative career because of term limits.

source: Florida Sun-Sentinel