Texas governor promises to sign abortion law that will close most clinics

The Republican Texas governor, Rick Perry, has said that he will sign into law controversial new legislation, approved by the state senate over the weekend, that would impose tough restrictions on abortion services.

The law bans abortions after 20 weeks from fertilization, requires that doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at a nearby hospital, and requires that all abortions take place in fully equipped ambulatory surgical centers, complete with air sterilization systems, back-up generators, and specific room and doorway sizes.

“Today the Texas legislature took its final step in our historic effort to protect life,” Perry said 13 July. “This legislation builds on the strong and unwavering commitment we have made to defend life and protect women’s health.”

The law was passed after a bitter legislative fight that included an 11 hour filibuster by Senator …