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VA to offer abortions to veterans for first time despite state laws, GOP objections

The Department of Veterans Affairs plans to offer abortions at its facilities for the first time in its history, including in states with near-total bans, over the objections of Republicans who said the move violates federal law.

The department announced Friday that it will begin providing abortions and abortion counseling to veterans as well as eligible civilian family members when the life or health of the pregnant woman is in danger, or in cases of rape or incest.

The services will become available after publication of the interim final rule, which was submitted Thursday to the Federal Register.