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31, aimed at clarifying emergency exceptions, faces criticism for potentially restricting abortion access and reviving outdated criminal statutes.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