The bill, H.B. No. 257, proposes amendments to the Texas Health and Safety Code regarding the laws prohibiting abortion. It redefines the term "pregnant" to refer to the condition of having an embryo or fetus develop within the human body. The bill introduces exceptions to the prohibition of abortion, allowing it when performed by a licensed physician under specific circumstances, such as when it is medically indicated, necessary to preserve the pregnant patient's life or health, or due to lethal fetal anomalies. Additionally, it clarifies that medical treatment resulting in the accidental injury or death of the embryo or fetus does not constitute a violation of the law.
Furthermore, the bill emphasizes that each abortion permitted under the exceptions must be considered independently by the treating physician and the patient or their healthcare proxy, and that no medical review process can override their decision. It also ensures that no criminal, civil, or administrative liability is imposed on the pregnant patient for undergoing an abortion. The bill repeals certain existing provisions and clarifies that it does not legalize conduct prohibited by other statutes regulating abortion. If passed, the bill would take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if not.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Health and Safety Code 171.205, Health and Safety Code 171.206, Health and Safety Code 171.207 (Health and Safety Code 171)