The urgency of this legislation is clear:
- Cases of maternal sepsis have surged by 50% since Texas’ abortion ban took effect, as doctors face legal uncertainty and delay critical care. Many women now arrive at hospitals in life-threatening conditions. (ProPublica)
- One in five OB-GYNs in Texas has considered leaving the state due to restrictive abortion laws, while 30% of medical students say they won’t stay after their training—deepening the physician shortage. (Texas Tribune)
- More than 100 Texas OB-GYNs have signed a letter warning that the state’s abortion laws are harming patients and asking lawmakers to restore their ability to provide life-saving care. (Texas Tribune)
While this bill doesn’t cover rape, incest, or fetal abnormalities, it marks a significant step forward in protecting women’s health, fertility, and the physicians we need to retain and recruit in Texas.
Let me reiterate my position on Texas’ abortion ban: It’s wrong, it’s unjust, and it must be repealed. Unfortunately that’s not going to happen this session, but we do have a real chance to save lives by passing these exceptions.
Remember, abortion is on the ballot every two years in Texas. The fight for reproductive freedom isn’t over, and your vote is one of the most powerful tools we have to reclaim choice in this State.
Thank you to everyone who has supported this effort. We’re not done yet, as this bill must pass both the House and Senate and be signed by the Governor, but today, we celebrate this progress as we continue working toward broader reproductive rights.
News from the United Nations