Alongside a large assembly of legislators, Governor Abbott signed the Texas Heartbeat Act, into law on Wednesday. The Act, filed as SB 8, successfully moved through both legislative chambers under the guidance of bill author Senator Bryan Hughes (R-Mineola) and bill sponsor Representative Shelby Slawson (R-Stephenville).
The Texas Heartbeat Act requires a physician check for a baby's heartbeat and prohibits an abortion after an unborn child's heartbeat is detected in the womb, except for instances of medical emergency. The bill authorizes a civil action against any person who performed or induced an abortion or any person who knowingly aided and abetted in the performance or inducement of an abortion.
"As the author of the House version of this historic bill, it is an incredible honor to see this landmark legislation passed and signed into law. Thanks to the collaborative work of conservative legislators, pro-life groups, and countless others, we are ensuring that in Texas, when a heartbeat is detected that precious baby's life is protected."
This new bill is one of the strongest pieces pro-life legislation ever passed in the state of Texas and will protect innocent, unborn babies upon the detection of the universal sign of life—a heartbeat. The Act takes effect on September 1, 2021.
Shelby Slawson is the State Representative for House District 59 in Central Texas. She serves on the House Calendars, State Affairs, and Pensions, Investments & Financial Services committees. Representative Slawson's office, along with your Capitol, is open to the public and plans to remain available throughout the interim.