Texas House Bill HB4527

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to civil liability and criminal penalties for performing certain abortions; providing civil penalties; creating criminal offenses.

Impact

The legislation seeks to exert stricter controls on abortion practices, emphasizing punitive measures for those who conduct abortions contrary to the amended provisions. This initiative is set against a backdrop of ongoing debates surrounding reproductive rights in Texas, suggesting a purposeful alignment with previous legislative attempts to restrict abortion access. Additionally, the bill outlines a specific civil penalty of $30,000 for each violation, thus creating a financial disincentive for providers and potentially dissuading individuals from seeking or offering abortion services.

Summary

House Bill 4527 aims to establish civil liabilities and criminal penalties associated with certain abortions performed in Texas. The bill amends the Civil Practice and Remedies Code and introduces new sections in the Health and Safety Code, specifically targeting violations related to abortion laws. Under this legislation, individuals and entities found in violation of specific abortion-related provisions could face significant financial penalties and potentially severe criminal charges, classifying violations as felonies of varying degrees based on prior offenses.

Contention

Notably, this bill is expected to incite considerable contention among different advocacy groups and political entities. Supporters argue it is necessary to uphold the state's health codes and protect life, while opponents view it as an infringement on women's health rights and personal autonomy. The harsh penalties associated with the bill may also raise constitutional concerns regarding women's rights and access to healthcare, igniting debates over medical decisions made between patients and healthcare providers. This polarization signifies that HB 4527 could have far-reaching implications for both legal frameworks and public health policies in Texas.