Kansas House advances big anti-abortion bill

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) - The Kansas House has given first-round approval to a bill blocking tax breaks for abortion providers and barring public schools from using sex education instruction from abortion providers.

The chamber's voice vote Tuesday advanced the measure to final action, which is expected Wednesday.

Abortion-rights advocates consider the bill as the biggest threat in Kansas this year to access to abortion services. Supporters contend it demonstrates the state's commitment to protecting life.

The bill would prevent groups providing abortions from receiving tax exemptions or credits that go to other nonprofit groups or health care providers. It would also bar women who claim income tax deductions for medical expenses from including the cost of abortion services.

The legislation also prohibits abortion providers from furnishing materials or instructors for schools' sex education classes.