Amended Life of the Mother Act Unaimously Passes Committee and Heads to Senate Floor
TYLER, Texas (KETK)–State Senator Bryan Hughes of Mineola is leading the charge at the Capitol when it comes to pro-life. Filing two of three bills up for vote this session.
'Pro-life laws in Texas are to protect a little unborn baby growing inside her mother's womb, and we recognize the mom also deserves protection. We can love them both, and protect them both,' State Senator Bryan Hughes said.
He filed Senate Bill 31, the Life of the Mother Act, as a way to clarify some of the exceptions under the state's current abortion law. Especially for some doctors who were confused and scared to treat their patients.
'Despite our willingness and commitment to provide the best care possible that there were circumstances where our decision making could result in adverse consequences for us, both personally and professionally,' Texas Medical Association Dr. Zeke Silva said.
The bill was first heard in the state affairs committee at the end of March. After valuable feedback, Hughes went to work with the Texas Medical Association to clear up the confusion on who would be charged and when they would face consequences.
Hughes reiterating the mother would not be prosecuted for having an abortion.
'Exempting us from any charge of aiding and abetting during discussions that happen commonly between a physician and their patient,' Dr. Silva said.
The amendments also took out the word 'Life-threatening' when referring to medical emergencies.
'This bill clarifies that there's no expectation to wait until those shortcomings are imminent or to wait until the mother's condition turns to a point that would lend itself to that, Dr. Silva said. 'Clarified the definition of a condition called an ectopic pregnancy to better align that definition with current medical standards and accurate anatomic decisions and descriptions.'
The amended bill also adds required education for lawyers and doctors to better understand Texas abortion laws. After getting a unanimous green light, the amended bill will now make its way to the Senate floor to be discussed and voted on before the 89th Legislative Session ends on June 2nd.
'Texas pro-life laws have always recognized an exception for the life of the Mother,' Hughes said.
Senate Bill 31 will make the law even clearer and will require doctors to receive specific training on the medical emergency exception.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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