Congress: A Boost for Abortion Rights

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In one of many looming face-offs between the White House and Congress, the Senate last week defied George Bush's threatened veto and passed a measure that would allow abortion counseling at federally funded clinics. It would also permit use of Medicaid funds for abortions for poor women who become rape or incest victims.

The ban on abortion counseling drew fire not only from pro-choicers but also from the medical profession and free-speech advocates. They questioned the constitutionality of limiting the advice that doctors could give to patients, but the Supreme Court early this year upheld the prohibition. The Senate bill and a House version will be reconciled in conference. The President, who has vetoed 21 bills and has never been overridden, was warned by congressional leaders of both parties that his winning streak will be at grave risk if he balks when the final bill reaches his desk.