WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 70

Relating to prohibition of transporting or funding the transportation of an unemancipated minor for an abortion; providing a civil penalty; creating a criminal offense.

89th Legislature, 1st Called Session (2025) Introduced by Trent Ashby and 2 co-sponsors

Texas bill criminalizes transporting minors out of state for abortions, creating civil and criminal penalties for facilitating such travel regardless of parental involvement.

Filed
#abortion(i0005) #crimes--miscellaneous(i0200) #parentalconsent(s0318)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 70

Legislative bill overview

HB 70 would prohibit transporting or funding the transportation of unemancipated minors across state lines to obtain abortion services. The bill establishes both civil penalties and criminal offenses for violations, creating liability for adults who facilitate such travel.

Why is this important

This legislation directly impacts abortion access for minors in restrictive states by attempting to prevent circumvention of parental notification/consent laws through out-of-state travel. It represents an expansion of state jurisdiction beyond Texas borders and intersects with interstate commerce, parental rights, and reproductive autonomy issues.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional questions: May face legal challenges on interstate commerce grounds, First Amendment (speech/association), and due process principles; similar laws have been challenged in federal courts
  • Enforcement mechanisms: Unclear how the state would identify and prosecute individuals; raises privacy concerns about medical records and travel surveillance
  • Parental vs. minor autonomy: Creates tension between parental authority and a minor's access to legal medical procedures available in other states; doesn't address cases involving parental abuse or neglect
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear whether this applies to parents/guardians, medical professionals, advocates, or ride-share services; broad definitions could criminalize routine travel assistance
  • Judicial bypass gap: Doesn't address Texas minors who obtain judicial bypass of parental consent but still face restrictions in-state

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

Sign in to ask a question.