Texas’ 6-week abortion ban lets private citizens sue in an unprecedented legal approach

A Texas state law than bans abortion after as early as six weeks into pregnancy could potentially create possibilities to pass extra abortion restrictions before Supreme Court to revisit Roe v. Wade.

This particular measure was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott in May and will go into effect on Wednesday. It prohibits conducting abortions once a heartbeat is detected. This could outlaw up to 85% of abortions within Texas (CNN). This will now be a “private right of action” to enforce the restriction and means private citizens can bring forth civil litigation with $10,000 or more in damages.

Anti-abortion advocates are ready to prepare lawsuits if clinics do violate the ban. Texas Right to Life is planning to create a tip line to report violations to the law. Language is vague as to those who could be sued, such as drivers to the clinic or those who are donors to abortion funds.

Abortion rights advocates feel this will disadvantage those of lower incomes who can’t travel out of state for an abortion procedure. If the law is able to be implemented, other states may follow suit and create further restrictions on abortions. 

ARTICLE: MAUREEN MCGAURAN

MANAGING EDITOR: CARSON CHOATE
PHOTO CREDITS: HOUSTON CHRONICLE

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