Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas House Bill HB113

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to prohibiting abortion that is based on the sex of the unborn child; creating an offense.

Impact

The enactment of HB 113 will amend the Texas Health and Safety Code, specifically adding provisions that prevent sex-selective abortions. This change could lead to significant legal consequences for practitioners and individuals who facilitate such abortions, reinforcing state authority over abortion practices while aiming to promote ethical standards concerning the value of unborn children irrespective of gender. Moreover, the bill introduces civil remedies, allowing individuals impacted by violations to seek damages, thus expanding the legal framework surrounding abortion in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 113 aims to prohibit abortions that are performed or attempted based on the sex of the unborn child. The bill specifies that both medical professionals and others are barred from knowingly conducting such procedures, defining penalties for violations ranging from Class B misdemeanors to substantial fines for physicians who do not comply. The legislation addresses an issue of gender selection in abortions, reflecting broader ethical concerns surrounding reproductive rights and gender discrimination.

Contention

Debate surrounding HB 113 is expected, as it intersects with ongoing discussions about reproductive rights, women's autonomy, and ethical medical practices. Proponents may argue that the bill safeguards against sex-selective terminations that could disproportionately affect female unborn children, aiming to discourage gender bias in reproductive healthcare. However, opponents are likely to raise concerns regarding the implications of increased regulation on women's rights and whether such legislation might pave the way for further restrictions on abortion access, questioning the balance between ethical considerations and women's healthcare rights.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

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 HB2538

Relating to the repeal of provisions related to notice and consent to an abortion on a minor.

TX HB5087

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

TX HB122

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on providing to certain children procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB4876

Imposing liability on those who perform or assist unlawful abortions.

TX HB1532

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and to the abuse of a child.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.