NH House Voting On 25-Foot Abortion Buffer Zone

CONCORD, N.H. (AP) — New Hampshire's House is voting whether to establish a buffer zone of up to a 25 feet around reproductive health facilities where abortions are offered.

The House is scheduled to vote Wednesday on the Senate bill that was filed in response to protests and picket activity at Planned Parenthood's health center in Manchester. More than 60 patient complaints have been logged since the beginning of 2013.

Supporters argue the buffer zone will ensure the privacy and dignity of patients and improve public safety.

Abortion opponents say the buffer zone violates their right to free speech by keeping them from praying on public streets and counseling women. They also argue nearby property owners' rights will be violated by creating the zone.

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