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As the Texas legislature opens its 2025 session, several anti-abortion bills have been introduced, primarily targeting the accessibility of abortion pills. These bills aim to close perceived loopholes in existing abortion bans, as abortion pills have provided alternatives to prevent unwanted pregnancies amid increasing restrictions nationwide.
Texas Right to Life, the state's leading anti-abortion advocacy group, has played a significant role in crafting these measures. The group urges Texans to hold those who support abortion accountable through lawsuits. John Seago, president of Texas Right to Life, emphasized the need for accountability around abortion pill access, stating, "We are going to try several different approaches to give Texans more tools to end this deadly trend."
Texas has been at the forefront of abortion restrictions, being the first state to implement a six-week ban before the United States Supreme Court's decision to overturn Roe v. Wade. Following this, Texas enforced a total ban, imposing severe penalties on medical practitioners who perform abortions.
Among the proposed legislation, one bill would classify the mailing of abortion pills without an in-state doctor’s prescription as a deceptive trade practice. Another bill seeks to designate abortion pills as controlled substances, potentially complicating access further. Additionally, a controversial proposal allows individuals to sue internet service providers to block websites facilitating access to abortion-related information and resources.
Texas Right to Life's endeavors reflect a broader strategy that could influence other Republican-led states. The implications of these bills, particularly regarding legal jurisdiction across state lines, raise concerns about complex legal battles ahead.
Democratic lawmakers have also introduced measures aimed at clarifying existing abortion laws and ensuring doctors can navigate the legal landscape, though these efforts are not expected to gain traction given the Republican majority in the legislature.