HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania’s Democratic governor is vetoing a bill that would prohibit abortions because of a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome, a day after it passed the Republican-controlled Legislature.

Gov. Tom Wolf on Thursday rejected the legislation that had just passed the Senate on a near party-line vote. He had made clear he would veto the bill.

Pennsylvania law allows abortions up to 24 weeks of pregnancy for any reason except to select a gender.

The bill would have added to that prohibition abortions over a prenatal diagnosis of Down syndrome.

Backers say the measure is needed to protect a vulnerable population whose lives are productive.

Opponents argue it violates the right of women to make their own decisions about abortion and caution against forcing parents to raise children with the genetic chromosomal disorder.

In announcing his veto, Wolf said the bill restricts the rights of women and doctors.

“There is no evidence that this bill is needed in Pennsylvania," Wolf said in a statement. “I have significant concerns that enforcement of this legislation would upend the doctor-patient relationship and impede on patient confidentiality,” Wolf said.

“Further, I am not aware of a single disability rights group that supports this bill," he continued. “I support continuing the bipartisan work that’s been done to help people with disabilities. I also believe there is much more Pennsylvania could do to help women and families facing complex pregnancies. However, this bill does not aid in either of these efforts.”

The Pennsylvania Catholic Conference pushed for the bill and criticized the governor for vetoing the legislation.

“Gov. Wolf’s veto will prevent all children with Down’s Syndrome from going on to live happy and fulfilled lives," the conference said in a statement. “Had Gov. Wolf signed this legislation, he would’ve ensured the protection of humanity’s most vulnerable lives.”

The bill was sponsored by state Rep. Kate Klunk, a Republican from York County.

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