Texas House Bill 395, introduced by Rep. Donna Howard (D-Austin) during the 89th Legislative Session, seeks to amend existing abortion laws by introducing exceptions for pregnancies resulting from sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, or incest.
Key Components of HB 395:
- Exception for Sexual Assault and Incest: The bill proposes that abortions be permissible if the pregnancy resulted from sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, or conduct constituting an offense under the prohibition of incest. Importantly, it stipulates that the pregnant patient is not required to file a police report, provide forensic evidence, or pursue prosecution of the alleged offense to qualify for this exception.
- Conforming Amendments: HB 395 includes amendments to ensure consistency across related statutes, aligning them with the proposed exceptions.
Call to Action:
To support reproductive rights and the well-being of individuals affected by sexual assault and incest in Texas, consider taking the following actions:
- Contact Your Legislators: Reach out to your state representatives and senators to express your support for HB 395. Emphasize the importance of providing compassionate exceptions in abortion laws for survivors of sexual assault and incest. You can find your legislators' contact information here.
- Engage in Public Discourse: Participate in community discussions, attend town hall meetings, and use social media platforms to raise awareness about HB 395. Sharing factual information can help counteract misinformation and build broader support.
- Collaborate with Advocacy Groups: Partner with organizations that focus on reproductive rights and support for survivors of sexual violence. These groups often have resources and coordinated efforts to advocate for legislative changes.
- Submit Public Comments: Monitor the progress of HB 395 and submit public comments during committee hearings to voice your support. Personal testimonies can be powerful in influencing legislative decisions.
By actively engaging in these efforts, you contribute to a collective movement aimed at ensuring that Texas laws reflect compassion and respect for the autonomy and well-being of all individuals, particularly survivors of sexual assault and incest.