Texas Republicans in the Senate have introduced a bill, the “Life of the Mother Act,” to clarify when a doctor can intervene to save a pregnant patient’s life under the near-total abortion ban in the state. The bill, filed by Sen. Bryan Hughes and supported by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, aims to address confusion among doctors regarding the existing law’s vague language and penalties.
The bill reiterates the existing law allowing doctors to remove ectopic pregnancies or remains of a fetus after a miscarriage and clarifies that discussing a medically necessary abortion with a patient is not considered aiding and abetting. It also ensures that doctors are not required to withhold life-saving treatment to preserve the life of the fetus.
The bill aligns with guidance from the Texas Supreme Court and proposes continuing education requirements for lawyers and doctors to better understand and apply these laws. Despite previous claims that the laws are clear, implementation challenges have led doctors to delay or avoid necessary care for pregnant patients.
The bill is unlikely to satisfy abortion advocates seeking broader access to the procedure, but aims to provide clarity for doctors under the current restrictive laws in Texas. Additionally, another priority bill, SB 33, aims to prevent cities and counties from supporting abortion funds and nonprofits that assist in out-of-state abortions.
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