Texas House Bill HB257

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to exceptions to and the repeal of certain laws prohibiting abortion.

Impact

This bill significantly impacts state law regarding reproductive health by providing clearer guidelines under which abortions can be performed legally. It stipulates that no legal penalties can be imposed on pregnant patients for seeking or undergoing an abortion that meets these exceptions, which changes the current legal landscape around reproductive rights in Texas. As such, the law aims to protect patients and physicians from legal repercussions provided they adhere to the stipulated conditions when performing an abortion.

Summary

House Bill 257 addresses exceptions to current prohibitions on abortion in Texas by amending the Health and Safety Code. The bill suggests clarifying definitions related to pregnancy and sets forth specific conditions under which abortions may be permitted, such as when the procedure is deemed medically necessary to preserve the life or health of the pregnant patient. The language aims to ensure that decisions regarding abortions fall under the jurisdiction of licensed physicians in consultation with their patients or healthcare proxies, explicitly allowing for legal abortion practices under defined exceptions.

Contention

Notably, the bill has stirred debate concerning its implications on women's health rights and healthcare provider autonomy. Proponents argue that it provides necessary protections for women facing serious health issues or unfavorable fetal diagnoses, allowing for compassionate healthcare responses. Conversely, critics are likely to express concerns about the potential loopholes it could create or its perceived inadequacies in fully safeguarding access to abortion services, particularly in a political climate where reproductive rights are heavily contested.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

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

• Chapter 171. Abortion
  • Section: New Section