Texas Senate Bill SB1280

Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

• Filed: 2/28/23

Caption

Relating to the applicability of certain laws to assistance provided to an individual in obtaining an abortion outside of this state.

Impact

The bill directly impacts existing state laws regarding abortion assistance by ensuring that individuals can help others travel out of Texas to obtain abortion services without facing legal repercussions. This represents a significant modification of Texas law, emphasizing a more permissive approach toward supportive actions related to abortion. The law aims to facilitate access for those seeking abortion care, countering a backdrop of increasing restrictions.

Summary

SB1280 is a Texas legislative proposal that amends the Health and Safety Code to explicitly permit individuals to provide assistance to those seeking to travel out of state for an abortion. The bill clarifies that neither direct nor indirect assistance for such travel would be considered a violation of existing laws. This measure is seen as a response to the restrictive abortion laws in Texas, which have created significant barriers to obtaining abortion services within the state, particularly following recent legislative changes to abortion access.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1280 appears to be contentious and polarized. Supporters of the bill, primarily from progressive and reproductive rights advocacy circles, view it as a necessary step to protect individuals’ rights to access abortion services and to support those who seek to obtain this care outside of Texas. Conversely, opponents to the bill may frame it as an erosion of state authority and an affront to the legislative measures aimed at restricting abortion, reflecting ongoing national debates regarding reproductive rights.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the broader implications of SB1280 in the context of Texas' ongoing legislative stance on abortion. Critics may argue that the bill undermines state laws designed to limit abortion access, potentially encouraging residents to bypass local regulations. Supporters, however, argue that the bill serves as a critical safeguard for personal rights and healthcare choices. As the discussion continues, the interplay between state and individual rights remains a key theme in the discourse surrounding this legislation.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 170. Prohibited Acts Regarding Abortion
  • Section: New Section

• Chapter 171. Abortion
  • Section: New Section