Overview

• Senate Bill 31, passed 129-6 in the Texas House, clarifies medical exceptions under the state's strict abortion ban and now awaits Gov. Greg Abbott's approval.
• The bill specifies that doctors cannot face criminal charges for performing abortions in medical emergencies causing major bodily impairment and defines life-threatening conditions as those capable of causing death.
• It does not expand exceptions to include cases of rape, incest, or fatal fetal anomalies, which critics argue leaves significant gaps in protecting women's health.
• Supporters, including Republican lawmakers, say the bill aims to provide clear guidance to doctors and hospitals, addressing widespread confusion since the 2022 abortion ban took effect.
• Opponents, including abortion-rights advocates, contend the bill's narrow scope may not adequately prevent delays or denials of life-saving care, which have reportedly led to at least three maternal deaths.