House Bill No. 218, introduced by Troxclair, seeks to establish regulations regarding the transportation of unemancipated minors for the purpose of obtaining an abortion. The bill adds Chapter 170B to the Health and Safety Code, which prohibits any person from knowingly transporting or funding the transportation of an unemancipated minor out of Texas for an abortion without the written consent of a parent or a legally recognized guardian. Exceptions to this prohibition are outlined, specifically for abortions performed under certain conditions defined in existing law.

The bill also introduces significant penalties for violations, categorizing the offense as a second-degree felony, escalating to a first-degree felony if the unborn child dies as a result of the abortion. Additionally, violators face a civil penalty of at least $100,000 per violation, with the attorney general authorized to pursue recovery of these penalties. The legislation ensures that the minor themselves cannot be held liable under this chapter and mandates disciplinary actions against healthcare professionals who violate these provisions. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

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