Austin, Texas — Despite a new Texas law enabling private citizens to sue anyone involved in the distribution of abortion pills, nonprofits aiding Texans in obtaining abortions are vowing to persist in their operations. These organizations are determined to continue their support even as the state tightens restrictions surrounding abortion access.
Texas already has strict abortion laws, prohibiting the procedure in most instances. However, many Texans still obtain medications like mifepristone and misoprostol, prescribed by doctors from out-of-state through telemedicine and shipped directly to them. House Bill 7, which takes effect on December 4, allows private citizens to seek financial restitution upwards of $100,000 for lawsuits against those facilitating access to such medications.
Under the new law, individuals directly affected, including the pregnant person and their immediate family, can claim the full financial award for successful lawsuits. Other citizens could receive $10,000, with any remaining balance redirected to charity. Proponents argue this legislation aims to address common methods of abortion that remain accessible even in states with stringent bans.
Texas Right to Life, a prominent anti-abortion organization, endorsed the bill, positioning it as a deterrent to those providing abortion-related meds to Texans. John Seago, the group’s president, remarked that the initiative serves as a model for similar laws across the nation.
In contrast, abortion funding organizations, which assist Texans with crucial logistical, informational, and financial support to access out-of-state abortions, have pushed back against the legislation. Prior to it being signed into law, a coalition of these nonprofit entities affirmed their commitment to continue offering support to those seeking abortions.
“Make no mistake: abortion funds aren’t going anywhere,” read a statement from the coalition. They reassured individuals seeking guidance that they would continue to assist, emphasizing their stance that supporting healthcare access is not a crime.
Kamyon Conner, executive director of the Texas Equal Access Fund, expressed concern that their operations could face significant legal challenges despite complying with existing laws. Although the fund does not underwrite abortion pill costs, it directs individuals to publicly available online information. She worries that the fear of legal ramifications from the new law could hinder their ability to assist those in need.
The chilling effect of these legal parameters extends beyond organizations. Lauren Miller, a reproductive rights activist and a plaintiff challenging Texas’ existing abortion laws, warns that individuals may hesitate to discuss or share personal experiences related to obtaining an abortion. This hesitancy could further isolate those seeking help.
Additionally, a related law enacted on September 1 restricts local governments from using public funds to support residents seeking abortions out of state, impacting future assistance programs that once existed in cities like Austin and San Antonio.
Conner elaborated on how these legislative actions could disrupt local organizing and support efforts, emphasizing that community-based actions are critical for sustained advocacy and assistance.
This evolving legal landscape continues to create concern among those advocating for reproductive rights and access in Texas. The uncertainty surrounding the new law makes it more crucial than ever for organizations to adapt while supporting those in need under increasingly challenging circumstances.
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