Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB2880

Filed
3/14/25  
Out of Senate Committee
4/23/25  
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs; making conforming changes and harmonizing conforming provisions; authorizing a private civil right of action.

Impact

If enacted, SB 2880 will significantly alter existing abortion law in Texas by tightening the restrictions on abortion-inducing drugs. The establishment of civil liability would hold parties accountable for repercussions stemming from these drugs, which could lead to a reduction in their availability and usage. Additionally, the provision for qui tam actions may encourage more individuals to report violations, potentially leading to increased scrutiny and enforcement of abortion-related laws. Overall, the bill aims to deter the distribution and use of abortion-inducing drugs through legal repercussions.

Summary

Senate Bill 2880 is aimed at reforming the legal framework surrounding abortion in Texas, specifically targeting the distribution and use of abortion-inducing drugs. The bill, referred to as the Women and Child Protection Act, introduces strict liability for individuals involved in the manufacture, distribution, or prescription of these drugs. It establishes that any harm caused by their use could lead to civil actions for wrongful death or personal injury. Furthermore, the bill permits private citizens to initiate qui tam actions against individuals or parties that violate its provisions, essentially allowing private enforcement of abortion laws in Texas.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB 2880 reflects a deeply polarized debate. Proponents, often aligned with conservative values, view the legislation as a necessary step to protect unborn children and uphold moral standards regarding life. They argue that imposing civil liability is essential to deter abortion-related practices deemed harmful. Conversely, opponents, including reproductive rights advocates and some public health organizations, express strong concerns over the implications for women's health and autonomy. They argue that such legislation could lead to increased barriers to accessing safe abortions and undermine women's rights to make decisions about their own bodies.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding SB 2880 include its implications for personal freedoms and the role of civil liability in health care. Critics fear that the bill could deter medical professionals from providing necessary care for women experiencing medical emergencies and could have a chilling effect on healthcare providers. Additionally, the broad scope of liability raises concerns about the practicality of enforcement and the potential for misuse of the qui tam provisions. The bill's proponents, however, maintain that these measures are essential to ensure accountability and legal protections surrounding the distribution of abortion-inducing drugs.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

  • Chapter 171. Abortion
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Civil Practice And Remedies Code

  • Chapter 17. Parties; Citation; Long-arm Jurisdiction
    • Section: New Section
  • Chapter 27. Actions Involving The Exercise Of Certain Constitutional Rights
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: 010
    • Section: 010
  • Chapter 110. Religious Freedom
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section
    • Section: New Section

Penal Code

  • Chapter 71. Organized Crime
    • Section: 02
    • Section: 02

Companion Bills

TX HB5510

Identical Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs, and to the destruction of certain property; making conforming changes and harmonizing conforming provisions; creating criminal offenses; authorizing a private civil right of action.

Previously Filed As

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 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.

TX HB2690

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 HB3588

Relating to an exemption from abortion restrictions for unemancipated minors and the repeal of provisions regarding notice and consent to those abortions.

TX SB78

Relating to the provision of an abortion-inducing drug.

TX HB4876

Imposing liability on those who perform or assist unlawful abortions.

TX HB5087

Relating to the regulation of abortion, including abortion complication reporting and the repeal of certain laws prohibiting abortion.

TX HB925

Relating to firearms; authorizing a private civil right of action.

TX HB4504

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of certain provisions of the Code of Criminal Procedure, including conforming amendments.

Similar Bills

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 HB991

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 HB2690

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 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.

TX HB66

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 HB37

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs; making conforming changes and harmonizing conforming provisions; authorizing a private civil right of action.

TX HB65

Relating to abortion, including civil liability for distribution of abortion-inducing drugs; making conforming changes and harmonizing conforming provisions; authorizing a private civil right of action.