Rhode Island governor vetoes "Choose Life" license plate

The plate would have raised money for a faith-based crisis pregnancy center

Published July 17, 2013 12:43PM (EDT)

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) — Rhode Island's governor has vetoed legislation to authorize a "Choose Life" license plate that would have raised money for a Christian crisis pregnancy center that opposes abortion.

Democratic Gov. Lincoln Chafee (CHAY'-fee) made the move Tuesday, saying it's inappropriate to use state license plates to raise money for a religious organization.

Lawmakers approved the plate earlier this month.

Half of the $40 cost of the plate would have gone to CareNet, a faith-based crisis pregnancy center in Providence. Supporters said the proceeds could have reduced abortions.

Abortion rights supporters had urged Chafee to veto the bill.

A vote by three-fifths of the General Assembly would override the veto. But with House Speaker Gordon Fox opposed to the bill, it's unlikely another vote would occur.

Twenty-nine states offer similar plates.


By Associated Press

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