Political and Legislative
Texas’ ‘Fetal Heartbeat’ Abortion Ban Goes Into Effect
A Texas bill banning virtually all abortions after a heartbeat is detected, which can occur in as few as six weeks, went into effect at midnight on Wednesday after the Supreme Court did not move to block it.
Gov. Greg Abbott (R-Texas) signed the controversial legislation, referred to as the “fetal heartbeat” bill by many, in May, and it was set to go into effect on Sept. 1.
The bill, in addition to prohibiting virtually all abortions after a fetal heartbeat is detected, allows most private citizens to file lawsuits against abortion providers if they have a suspicion that the provider infringed on the new policy.
