RICHMOND, Va. (AP) _ Gov. Terry McAuliffe has vetoed a Republican-backed bill that seeks to block state funding for Planned Parenthood. The Democratic governor said he was proud to veto the legislation that would defund the women’s health group, which performs abortions as well as well as providing other health services. McAuliffe was joined at an event Tuesday by lawmakers and advocates. He said he needed to “smack down” the attempt to limit women’s health rights. Supporters of the measure say it’s needed to ensure state funds continue not to be used for elective abortions. Republican Del. Ben Cline said in a statement that McAuliffe is listening to his friends in the “abortion lobby,” rather than “ensuring women have access to quality care.” Republicans likely don’t have enough votes to overturn the veto.
