Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott held a bill signing ceremony at the Texas Capitol to officially sign Senate Bill 31 and Senate Bill 33 into law. The legislation is intended to provide legal protection for mothers and children in Texas.

"In Texas, we support mothers and their children," said Governor Abbott. "This session, the Texas Legislature worked together to pass the Life of the Mother Act to protect both mothers and babies while giving medical professionals the legal security and clinical clarity they desire. I am also proud to sign a law to ban taxpayer dollars from funding abortions. Texas is a pro-life and pro-family state. With these laws, we will stay that way."

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick attended the event along with Senators Donna Campbell, Bryan Hughes, Lois Kolkhorst, and several Representatives including Keith Bell, David Cook, Caroline Harris-Davila, Stan Gerdes, Charlie Geren, Hillary Hickland, Candy Noble, Angelia Orr, Keresa Richardson, John Smithee, and Cody Vasut.

Senate Bill 31 (Hughes/Geren), known as the Life of the Mother Act, aims to ensure that healthcare providers can treat pregnant women facing life-threatening emergencies without fear of violating abortion prohibitions. The law clarifies when medical exceptions apply under current statutes so that healthcare professionals have clearer guidance on what constitutes a medical emergency.

Senate Bill 33 (Campbell/Noble) prevents state government entities from using public funds or resources to support abortions or related services. This includes barring contracts with abortion providers or organizations that help individuals obtain abortions.

The new laws are part of ongoing efforts by state lawmakers to reinforce Texas’ stance on abortion policy.