The bill, introduced by Bowers as H.B. No. 1986, aims to regulate abortion practices in Texas, specifically focusing on abortion complication reporting and repealing certain existing laws that prohibit abortion. Key amendments include a broadened definition of "abortion complication" to include instances such as an infant born alive after an abortion, and the stipulation that reporting requirements apply to physicians and health care facilities involved in diagnosing or treating abortion complications. Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions related to abortion-inducing drugs, emphasizing compliance with protocols established by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and allowing for the provision of these drugs according to clinical management guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.

Furthermore, the bill includes significant deletions, repealing several sections of the Health and Safety Code that previously regulated abortion, thereby streamlining the legal framework surrounding abortion practices in Texas. It clarifies that the subchapter does not authorize legal action against women undergoing abortions and does not limit the ability of political subdivisions to impose stricter regulations. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 171.061, Health and Safety Code 171.063, Health and Safety Code 171.206, Health and Safety Code 171.207 (Health and Safety Code 171)