Controversial 12-week abortion ban passes North Carolina House.

North Carolina Republicans have passed a new 12-week abortion ban in the state House, less than 24 hours after it was introduced. The bill is scheduled to go before the Senate on Thursday. The passage was aided by a vote from a former Democrat, Tricia Cotham, who joined the GOP last month. The bill could face a veto from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. Passing it quickly lets Republicans avoid days of protests at the legislature. Democrats called the Republicans’ process undemocratic, saying such a massive change to state law should happen more slowly, with opportunities for public debate or amendments to the bill.