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.
