Texas Senate Bill SB721

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/7/25

Caption

Relating to prohibiting the disbursement of certain economic and tax incentives to entities that assist, refer, or otherwise encourage a woman to obtain an abortion.

Impact

The implications of SB721 extend to both the funding of local organizations and the broader economic landscape within Texas. By prohibiting financial support to entities associated with abortion services, the bill could potentially limit resources available for women's health care and related programs. Critics argue that this could have a detrimental effect on public health, particularly in communities that already face barriers to healthcare access. Proponents of the bill argue that it ensures that public funds are not used to support activities they view as morally objectionable.

Summary

SB721 is a legislative proposal introduced in Texas aimed at restricting the disbursement of certain economic and tax incentives to entities that assist, refer, or encourage a woman to obtain an abortion. This bill amends various provisions across multiple sections of the Government Code, Labor Code, and Tax Code, explicitly stating that entities involved in abortion-related services are ineligible for financial assistance from state funds. The bill reflects a growing trend among several states to impose conditions on the allocation of public funds in relation to reproductive health services.

Contention

Notable points of contention around SB721 include debates on the ethics of using public funds as well as the interpretation of government support for reproductive rights. Advocates for women's health rights view the bill as an infringement on personal choice and healthcare access, asserting that it could inadvertently harm women seeking necessary medical care. On the other hand, supporters maintain that it aligns with a broader agenda to protect unborn lives and restrict public funding for the abortion industry, reflecting a significant ideological divide within the state and the country at large.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section

Labor Code

• Chapter 1. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section

Tax Code

• Chapter 301. General Provisions
  • Section: New Section