Relating to the regulation of abortion procedures, providers, and facilities; providing penalties.
Impact
HB2 introduces several changes to existing Texas law regarding abortion. It amends the Health and Safety Code to clarify the requirements and restrictions placed on abortion providers. A key element of the law is the enforcement of standards that align abortion facilities with ambulatorily surgical centers. Furthermore, the bill mandates that physicians performing abortions must provide adequate documentation regarding the probable post-fertilization age of the unborn child before proceeding with the procedure, substantially tightening the criteria under which abortions can be performed.
Summary
House Bill 2 (HB2) focuses on the regulation of abortion procedures, providers, and facilities within the state of Texas. This legislation is particularly notable for its provision that prohibits abortions performed on unborn children 20 or more weeks after fertilization. The bill's authors cited medical evidence suggesting that unborn children can experience pain at this stage, which they proposed as a compelling state interest to regulate abortions. The legislation stipulates various requirements for physicians performing abortions, including having admitting privileges at a nearby hospital and providing essential information to the pregnant woman prior to the procedure.
Contention
The passage of HB2 has sparked significant controversy, with proponents arguing that it enhances the safety and procedures of abortion practices, thereby protecting women's health. However, opponents contend that the bill imposes undue burdens on women seeking abortions, especially those who may need them after the 20-week mark due to various health complications or severe fetal abnormalities. Critics also argue that the requirements for physicians to have hospital admitting privileges could limit the availability of abortion services, particularly in rural areas. The debate around HB2 is emblematic of the broader national conversation on reproductive rights and state regulation of abortion.
Relating to an exemption from abortion restrictions for unemancipated minors and the repeal of provisions regarding notice and consent to those abortions.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Relating to abortion complication reporting and the regulation of drug-induced abortion procedures, providers, and facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to abortion complication reporting and the regulation of drug-induced abortion procedures, providers, and facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to abortion complication reporting and the regulation of drug-induced abortion procedures, providers, and facilities; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to abortion complication reporting and the regulation of drug-induced abortion procedures, providers, and facilities; creating a criminal offense.