Texas lawmakers have taken a significant step forward in the fight against taxpayer-funded abortion by passing the Stop Tax-Funded Abortion Travel Act.
This groundbreaking legislation, spearheaded by State Senator Donna Campbell and Representative Candy Noble, puts an end to the use of public funds by cities like Austin and San Antonio for funding abortion travel.
Starting September 1, 2025, the law will make it illegal for local governments to use taxpayer dollars to pay for transportation and accommodation expenses for women traveling out of state to obtain abortions.
For years, Texas cities have found loopholes to funnel taxpayer money into abortion travel under the guise of “logistical support.”
In recent years, Austin allocated a staggering $400,000 to its “Reproductive Health–Logistics Support Fund,” with part of that funding going to organizations that assist young girls in obtaining abortions without parental consent.
This new law aims to eliminate any excuses city councils have used to justify supporting abortion services indirectly.
The decision comes on the heels of a notable decline in abortion rates following the reversal of Roe v. Wade, which has spurred liberal cities to push back by covering the costs of out-of-state abortions.
However, the law stands firm against any attempt to manipulate state funds for pro-abortion initiatives.
Critics of the funding, including pro-life advocates, have argued passionately that it is unacceptable for Texas taxpayers to be forced to subsidize killing preborn babies.
In total, it is estimated that 15,000 Texas babies were aborted out of state in 2023, spurring lawmakers to take decisive action.
As noted by proponents of the new legislation, the fight is not over. During a recent session, lawmakers attempted unsuccessfully to pass the Woman and Child Protection Act, which would further address the distribution of mail-order abortion pills.
As of now, Governor Abbott has the option to call a special session to revisit this critical issue.
The Stop Tax-Funded Abortion Travel Act marks a crucial victory for pro-life advocates in Texas, ensuring that taxpayers will no longer be coerced into funding practices that go against their values.
With the bipartisan support of lawmakers prioritizing the dignity of life, Texas is taking a bold stand against the pro-abortion agenda.
This reflects a growing trend among states to protect the rights of the unborn and stand up against forced taxpayer funding of abortion services.
As the September implementation date approaches, all eyes will be on local governments as they adjust to this vital legal change.
Sources:
lifenews.comthenationalpulse.comjonathanturley.org