Texas legislature passes bill banning abortions once fetal heartbeat detected
The legislation allows for people to lodge a civil action against those who perform such an abortion.
The Texas legislature has approved a bill banning most abortions once a fetal heartbeat is detected.
While the government would not enforce the ban, the legislation allows for people to lodge a civil action against those who perform such an abortion or "aid or abet" in performing such an abortion, though an individual who impregnated a woman through rape or incest may not sue.
There is an exception for abortions performed due to a medical emergency, but no carve outs regarding pregnancies resulting from rape or incest.
Republican Gov. Greg Abbott plans to sign the bill which will become effective September 1.