House Bill No. 218 introduces new regulations regarding the transportation of unemancipated minors for the purpose of obtaining an abortion. It establishes Chapter 170B in 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. The bill outlines exceptions to this prohibition, specifically referencing existing provisions in Section 170A.002 of the Health and Safety Code. Additionally, it clarifies that the chapter does not impose any criminal, civil, or administrative liability on the minor themselves.

The bill also establishes penalties for violations of this prohibition, categorizing it as a second-degree felony, escalating to a first-degree felony if the unborn child dies as a result of the abortion. A civil penalty of at least $100,000 is imposed for each violation, with the attorney general authorized to pursue recovery of these penalties. Furthermore, the bill mandates disciplinary action against healthcare professionals who violate these provisions, including the revocation of their licenses. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes, and its provisions are declared severable to ensure the validity of remaining sections if any part is deemed invalid.

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