After heated debate on Tuesday and Wednesday, the Uruguayan Senate decided to postpone the final vote on a bill that would decriminalized abortion. The measure, which would allow abortion on demand during the first trimester, was approved by the Uruguayan House of Representatives last year, but most watchers agree that the bill will not have enough votes to pass in the Senate.

The delay until next month simply postpones the battle between pro-life groups and anti-life forces that are seeking to garner votes for the measure.  If the Senate votes against the bill—on Wednesday there were not enough votes in favor ensure passage—it cannot be brought before the body again until the new legislative session, which will begin on March 1, 2005.