Top Republican Will Keep Abortion Vote On Track

AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst lost control of the Texas Senate to what he called an "unruly mob" during an abortion debate two weeks ago. He says it won't happen again.

The conservative Republican has scheduled a vote on Friday afternoon to impose new restrictions on when, where and how women may obtain an abortion in Texas.

Angry protesters prevented the bill from passing in the final 15 minutes of the first special legislative session by shouting and screaming. When protesters return Friday afternoon, Dewhurst has dozens of additional state police on standby. He says he will clear the Senate if spectators start protesting.

Democrats say they can do little to stop Friday's vote and the bill will go to Gov. Rick Perry. Abortion-rights groups expect to challenge it in court.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.