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U.S. Sen. Joni Ernst filed legislation on Monday eliminating federal funding for Planned Parenthood and overturning an Obama administration rule barring states from defunding the women’s health organization. The moves were cheered by organizations that oppose abortion and the use of federal dollars in aiding family-planning organizations that also provide abortion services. The moves also drew protests on Monday from abortion rights advocates at Ernst’s downtown Des Moines office. (Noble and Leys, 1/30)

State Rep. Tony Tinderholt, R-Arlington, has been placed under the protection of the Texas Department of Public Safety after receiving death threats following his filing of a bill to criminalize abortion in Texas. (Svitek, 1/30)