Iowa House may take up abortion restrictions

DES MOINES, Iowa — A late debate on abortion could delay lawmakers as they work to craft budgets and end this year's legislative session.

Social conservatives concede they probably won't succeed, but they argue it's important to allow debate on the issue and get legislators on the record for where they stand.

The debate revolves around the budget that funds human serves programs. That could come up as soon as this week.

Republicans, who hold a majority in the House, argue that no tax dollars should pay for abortions. Even if the House approves such restrictions, it's doubtful the Senate would agree.

State law now allows funding of abortions when a doctor deems it necessary and a woman doesn't have money or insurance coverage to pay for the procedure.