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Texas Abortion Bill Raises Concerns Over Revival of 19th-Century Law

Senate Bill 31, aimed at clarifying emergency exceptions, faces criticism for potentially restricting abortion access and reviving outdated criminal statutes.

  • Senate Bill 31 seeks to standardize emergency abortion exceptions in Texas but includes language that could reactivate a 19th-century law criminalizing abortion-related activities.
  • Abortion rights advocates warn the bill could jeopardize the operations of abortion funds and restrict access to supportive services like travel and lodging assistance.
  • Supporters argue the bill will provide clarity for medical professionals and protect doctors from criminal prosecution, though critics say it fails to address vague emergency exception language.
  • A federal injunction currently blocks enforcement of the 19th-century law, but the legal case remains unresolved and could escalate to higher courts, including the U.S. Supreme Court.
  • Republican lawmakers are also pursuing additional abortion restrictions, including measures targeting out-of-state procedures and access to abortion pills.
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