What does the end of Roe v. Wade mean for you?
More than 62 million unborn children have aborted since 1973. The Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization case removed federal mandates to abortion and restored each state's ability to set laws regarding the legality of abortion. Texas laws prohibit all abortion from conception while also putting into place funding to help those who are in unexpected pregnancies.
The Human Life Protection Act (House Bill 1280) protects unborn babies from abortion after viability and before viability, as early as conception. Some call this the "trigger" law because its effective date is triggered by the Supreme Court's action.
Senate Bill 1 (the General Appropriations Act) contains numerous provisions to provide help to women, especially women living under low-income with unplanned pregnancies. Hundreds of thousands of women receive support through these services each year and will continue to do so now that the Supreme Court has struck down Roe v. Wade.
A vast network of pregnancy centers offer free care to women, men, their children, and families. A network of supporters also fund and promote maternity homes, child and adoption tax-credit expansion, and alternatives-to-abortion programs across Texas.
Privately funded centers and church-based programs offer similar services across Texas. Care at these centers includes pregnancy confirmation, counseling, moral support, and services to trauma from sex trafficking, domestic violence, or substance abuse. These centers can also provide maternity and baby clothes and diapers to clients. Budgeting, parenting and pregnancy classes, job skills training, and referrals to other government agencies are also available. Within Texas, parents can receive assistance and various types of aide up until the child's third birthday -- or older, depending on the center's capabilities.
More information about local centers and resources for you thoughout this site. There is help right here for you!
Can I be arrested or sued if I have an abortion?
No. Texas law penalizes only abortion providers and prevents them from performing or inducing an abortion (Texas Health & Safety Code § 170.002). Abortion pills are also illegal in Texas.
No "imposition of criminal, civil, or administrative liability or penalties" shall be taken against the woman.
The following laws explicitly state the protection of women:
- Public Health Provisions: Performance of Abortion Tex. Health & Safety Code 170A
- Sec. 170A.003
- The "Woman's Right to Know Act" Tex. Health & Safety Code 171
- Sec. 171.048; 063 - 065; 106; 206