The Women and Child Protection Act, H.B. No. 5510, seeks to impose stringent regulations on the distribution and use of abortion-inducing drugs in Texas by establishing Chapter 171A in the Health and Safety Code. The bill prohibits the manufacture, possession, distribution, and provision of these drugs, while also creating civil liabilities for individuals involved in their distribution. It allows private civil actions against violators, with the stipulation that the mother or father of an unborn child can seek damages, but protects the woman who sought the drugs from civil action. The legislation also introduces a six-year statute of limitations for claims and specifies that certain defenses, such as ignorance of the law, are not permissible.

Additionally, the bill amends the Penal Code to include new offenses related to the mailing or delivery of items intended for producing elective abortions and damage to properties associated with churches or crisis pregnancy centers. It removes previous offenses related to unlawful possession with intent to deliver controlled substances. The new provisions will apply only to offenses committed on or after the effective date of September 1, 2025, and includes a severability clause to ensure that remaining provisions stand if any part is deemed invalid. Overall, the bill aims to enhance legal measures surrounding abortion practices and strengthen protections for the state and its officials against legal challenges.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Civil Practice and Remedies Code 27.010 (Civil Practice and Remedies Code 27)