"Today's signing builds on our continued commitment to protecting life for more than a decade," the governor said in a short speech before the signing. "This is an important day for those who support life and the health of women in Texas. Signing HB2 further solidifies the foundation on which the culture of life in Texas is built."

The bill prohibits abortions past 20 weeks based upon scientific evidence that unborn babies can feel pain by that point. It also requires that abortion facilities meet the same safety standards as ambulatory surgical centers, and requires abortionists to have admitting privileges at a nearby hospital.

Critics of the bill charge that it could close as many as 37 of the state's abortion clinics.

In a statement on Saturday, Gov. Perry had welcomed the passage of the law in the Senate.

"Today the Texas Legislature took its final step in our historic effort to protect life," he said. "This legislation builds on the strong and unwavering commitment we have made to defend life and protect women's health. I am proud of our lawmakers, and citizens who tirelessly defended our smallest and most vulnerable Texans and future Texans."

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