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SJR 20

Proposing a constitutional amendment establishing an individual's right to personal reproductive autonomy.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 4 co-sponsors

Texas constitutional amendment would establish reproductive autonomy rights, potentially overriding the state's near-total abortion ban if approved by voters.

Referred to State Affairs
#abortion(i0005) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661)
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Bill Summary · SJR 20

Legislative bill overview

SJR 20 proposes a constitutional amendment to the Texas Constitution that would establish an explicit right to personal reproductive autonomy. The amendment would need to pass both chambers of the legislature and be approved by Texas voters in a statewide election to take effect. This represents an attempt to constitutionally protect reproductive decision-making at the state level.

Why is this important

Texas currently has some of the nation's most restrictive abortion laws, including a near-total ban with limited exceptions. A constitutional amendment establishing reproductive autonomy would directly conflict with and effectively override existing state restrictions. The outcome would fundamentally reshape reproductive rights policy in Texas and could serve as a model for other states seeking similar protections.

Potential points of contention

  • Definitional scope: "Reproductive autonomy" is undefined in the proposal, creating uncertainty about what decisions would be protected (abortion access, contraception, fertility treatment, etc.) and at what gestational stages
  • Competing constitutional interests: Opponents will argue this conflicts with state interests in potential life, parental rights for minors, and informed consent requirements
  • Political feasibility: Passage requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers and voter approval—a high bar in a Republican-controlled legislature, making passage unlikely in the near term

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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