Texas Senate Bill SB97

Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

• Filed: 11/12/12

Caption

Relating to distributing or prescribing abortion-inducing drugs; providing penalties.

Impact

This bill empowers the Texas Medical Board to enforce the regulations regarding abortion-inducing drugs. Physicians are mandated to conduct medical examinations and document necessary details about the pregnancy before prescribing such drugs. Furthermore, they must provide patients with extensive information, including emergency contacts and follow-up appointment schedules intended to ensure patients' physical safety post-administration. This could significantly affect the access to medical abortions, as compliance with these stipulations might deter some providers from offering these services due to the increased responsibilities and potential liabilities.

Summary

Senate Bill 97 addresses the regulation surrounding the distribution and prescription of abortion-inducing drugs in Texas. The bill amends Chapter 171 of the Health and Safety Code by establishing a new subchapter dedicated specifically to abortion-inducing medications. It includes detailed definitions of terms such as 'abortion,' 'abortion-inducing drug,' and 'medical abortion,' thus clarifying the scope of the legislation and the terms under which these drugs can be administered. Additionally, the bill outlines the responsibilities of physicians regarding the distribution of these drugs, which are closely linked to preventing practices that could endanger women's health.

Contention

Opposition to SB97 stems from concerns that it imposes unnecessary barriers for women seeking abortions through medical means. Critics argue that the bill's requirements may create obstacles that could delay access to care, particularly for women in vulnerable situations or those living far from healthcare facilities. Furthermore, discussions around the enforcement by the Texas Medical Board raise questions regarding how these regulations might be used to limit reproductive rights and how they align with women's healthcare autonomy. Advocates for women's rights and reproductive health maintain that such regulations disproportionately target women and impose excessive oversight on healthcare practitioners.