Texas Senate passes bill targeting distribution of abortion drugs after hours of debate

The Texas Senate voted to pass House Bill 7, known in the chamber as the Woman and Child Protection Act, after extended floor debate that included emotional testimony and constitutional arguments. Senator Hughes moved final passage; the tally was 17 yeas, 8 nays and 1 present, not voting.

Opponents said the bill would hinder access to standard medications used for miscarriage and postpartum care and create extraterritorial liability. "This bill is called the Woman and Child Protection Act. But make no mistake, this bill does not protect women, children, or families," Senator Alvarado said during floor remarks. "It deputizes Texans as bounty hunters."

Proponents framed the measure as accountability for manufacturers, distributors and others who send abortion-inducing drugs into Texas. "You manufacture and ship poisonous illegal drugs into Texas and people are harmed, you will be held accountable," Senator Hughes said on the floor, arguing the bill preserves existing…