Abortion issues will take center stage this week in the House

Two House subcommittees are scheduled to hold hearings on separate pieces of legislation that would expand restrictions on federal funding for abortions.

McClatchy: GOP-Led House Is Moving To Restrict Funding Of Abortions
The battle over abortion takes center stage in Congress this week as two House subcommittees hold hearings on separate bills that would expand restrictions on federal funding of abortions. The "No Taxpayer Funding for Abortion Act" would eliminate tax breaks for abortions. The "Protect Life Act" would restrict use of federal funds for abortions under the new health care law. While both may pass the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, their prospects of passing a Democratic-held Senate or escaping President Barack Obama's veto pen are slim to none (Douglas, 2/6).

The Hill: Conscience Rights Debate Reignited By Abortion Funds Bill
A bill designed to ensure that the health care reform law does not fund abortion services is reigniting a debate over a health care provider's right to refuse abortion services. The "Protect Life Act," sponsored by Reps. Joe Pitts (R-Pa.) and Dan Lipinski (D-Ill.), would specify that health care reform funding could not be used for abortion services (Millman, 2/5).