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The bill passed
by the Republican-controlled legislature would have barred the
state from providing funds to clinics that perform abortions not
covered by Medicaid, the federal healthcare program for the
poor.
McAuliffe, a Democrat, said the measure would harm thousands of
Virginians who relied on Planned Parenthood healthcare services
and programs. He vetoed a similar measure last year.
"Attempts to restrict women’s access to health care will impede
the goal of making Virginia the best place to live, work, and
run a business," he said in a statement.
Advocates for the law had said it would underpin organizations
that provide the widest range of services.
Planned Parenthood draws the ire of many Republicans because it
provides abortions. Republican President Donald Trump has
pledged to defund the organization.
(Reporting by Ian Simpson; Editing by James Dalgleish)
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