In response to the investigation of Kermit Gosnell — a West Philadelphia abortion doctor who now faces murder charges — Pennsylvania state legislators will introduce new regulations for abortion clinics. The Pennsylvania State House and Senate passed the bill last week, and Governor Tom Corbett is expected to sign it into law shortly. The new regulations will require the state’s Department of Health to hold abortion clinics to stricter regulations such as adhering to strict building codes and other state regulations. Proponents of the bill believe the bill will allow for safer abortions, while those against the bill believe it will be an attempt to make it harder for women to obtain abortions. Wharton junior and member of the Women’s Center Abuse and Sexual Assault Prevention — a student group that raises awareness of sexual assault — Juan Carlos Melendez-Torres opposes the new regulations. “None of the current clinics uphold those standards [that are required by this bill],” Melendez-Torres, also United Minorities Council vice chair, said. He believes that when this bill becomes law, abortion clinics that currently uphold safe practices will be forced to overhaul their facilities, which will be very costly.

An educational issue frequently overlooked is the digital divide: many West Philadelphia elementary school students have little access to computers at home — and at school.

Thirty-six students in grades one through six from Comegys Elementary School were at ZBT’s chapter house for an hour of Halloween-themed activities.