Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4526

Caption

Relating to civil liability for performing certain abortions; providing civil penalties.

Impact

The passage of HB 4526 signifies a notable shift in Texas law regarding the management and regulation of abortion services. By implementing civil penalties for violations, it reinforces the state’s stance on abortion, simultaneously creating a legal framework that may deter non-compliance. This may resonate particularly within healthcare environments where abortions are performed, as practitioners will now face financial consequences for specific infractions. The changes question the balance between reproductive health measures and the legal liabilities imposed on healthcare providers, invoking broader discussions regarding women's reproductive rights and access to services in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 4526 focuses on establishing civil liability for specific actions related to the performance of abortions. It amends sections of the Civil Practice and Remedies Code and the Health and Safety Code to impose civil penalties for violations of certain abortion statutes. Notably, the bill prescribes a civil penalty of $30,000 for each violation and allows the Texas Attorney General to pursue legal action to collect these penalties. The proposed changes are aimed at reinforcing compliance with existing abortion-related laws and ensuring accountability among practitioners and facilities engaged in these medical procedures.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4526 appears to be deeply polarized amongst lawmakers and constituents alike. Supporters argue that it strengthens the enforcement of laws designed to protect unborn life and ensures that medical practitioners follow legal protocols. In contrast, opponents interpret these penalties as a governmental overreach that may jeopardize women's health and autonomy. The debate encapsulates a larger ideological divide concerning reproductive rights in Texas, where passionate arguments and advocacy efforts are prevalent on both sides of the issue.

Contention

Notable points of contention around HB 4526 revolve around discussions of personal autonomy and medical ethics. Critics express concerns that imposing civil liabilities could lead to a chilling effect on medical practitioners, discouraging them from providing care for fear of legal repercussions. Furthermore, there are apprehensions regarding how these penalties may disproportionately impact vulnerable populations seeking reproductive health services. This debate highlights the ongoing struggles over reproductive rights in Texas, emphasizing tensions between state enforcement of laws and the rights of individuals to make personal healthcare decisions.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2324

Relating to the regulation of certain health professionals and health facilities; providing civil and administrative penalties; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1872

Relating to the prohibited sale of certain flavored e-cigarettes; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB417

Relating to electronic device filters for certain explicit material; providing a civil penalty.

TX SB2021

Relating to requirements for certain Internet websites containing sexual material harmful to minors; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB5249

Relating to prohibiting a public entity from providing financial assistance for abortion or abortion-related services; providing civil penalties.

TX SB2378

Relating to prohibiting a public entity from providing financial assistance for abortion or abortion-related services; providing civil penalties.

TX HB22

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and duties of Internet service providers; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a private civil right of action.

TX HB36

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and duties of Internet service providers; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a private civil right of action.

TX HB1936

Relating to electronic device filters for certain explicit material; creating a criminal offense; providing a civil penalty.

TX HB111

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs and duties of Internet service providers; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a private civil right of action.

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