The bill, S.B. No. 43, proposes amendments to the Health and Safety Code regarding exceptions to laws prohibiting abortion. It introduces a new exception allowing abortions if the pregnancy resulted from sexual assault, including specific offenses outlined in the Penal Code. This exception clarifies that the pregnant patient is not required to file a police report, provide forensic evidence, or pursue prosecution of the alleged offense. Additionally, the bill modifies the heading of Section 171.205 to reflect these exceptions and adds a new subsection stating that certain sections do not apply to abortions performed under the newly established exception.

Furthermore, the bill makes several amendments to existing sections, including clarifying that the subchapter does not authorize legal action against a pregnant patient for abortions performed in violation of the law. It also ensures that the subchapter does not repeal or limit other statutes regulating abortion and repeals Chapter 6-1/2 of the Revised Statutes. The bill is set to take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

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)