Bill To Bar Abortion Tax Subsidies Passes House

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LINDA WERTHEIMER, host:

For Republicans in the House, the issue yesterday was abortion. With the help of some Democrats, the Republicans passed a bill that would permanently ban federal funding for abortion. The measure would make permanent an existing law that Congress has renewed every years since the '70s.

STEVE INSKEEP, host:

The Republicans' bill would also prevent women from using any money set aside in flexible spending or health savings accounts. And it would ban federal tax benefits from many insurance plans if they cover abortion - a ban that would affect people who buy their own coverage or work for small businesses.

WERTHEIMER: Democrats say this sets a dangerous precedent - using the tax code to limit legal medical choices.

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