RI Senate Judiciary Committee Slates Vote On Abortion Bill

More than two months after the Rhode Island House approved a bill meant to ensure abortion rights in the state, the state Senate Judiciary Committee has slated a vote for Tuesday on House and Senate versions of the legislation.

In a statement, Senate President Dominick Ruggerio said, "Out of respect for everyone who has dedicated so much time to reaching out to their legislators, coming to the Statehouse and making their voices heard, I believe that it is important that the committee call a vote on the legislation."

While the calling of a vote guarantees approval under normal conditions in the General Assembly, it remains unclear if there's enough support on the Judiciary Committee to pass the abortion bill.

The Judiciary Committee has appeared closely divided, with Sen. Stephen Archambault (D-Smithfield) emerging as a potential swing vote. It's unclear if any of the Democratic or Republican members of the Senate leadership will use their ex officio capacity to take part in a committee vote.

Read more: https://thepublicsradio.org/article/ri-senate-judiciary-committee-slates-vote-on-abortion-bill