Oklahoma lawmakers override abortion veto

TULSA, Okla., April 27 (UPI) -- The Oklahoma Senate Tuesday overrode the governor's veto of strict abortion legislation, requiring a woman to see an ultrasound of a fetus before her procedure.

The two measures, overridden by the state House of Representatives Monday, also outlaw suits against doctors for "wrongful birth."

Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry said he was disappointed by the legislative action.

"It signals the beginning of another costly and possibly futile legal battle for the state of Oklahoma," The Oklahoman newspaper quoted Henry as saying. "Both laws will be challenged and, in all likelihood, overturned by the courts as unconstitutional. I fear this entire exercise will ultimately be a waste of taxpayers' time and money."

State Sen. Judy Eason McIntyre, D-Tulsa, said the legislation is "wrong" and told lawmakers they should consider women's rights.

"It's our body not theirs," Eason McIntyre said. "It's nobody else's decision. If it's the wrong decision, you live with it."

Sen. Connie Johnson, D-Oklahoma City, said sex education should be increased and free birth control should be made available to lessen the need for abortions.