Texas Eases Abortion Ban Under the Radar

Texas Democratic lawmaker Rep. Ann Johnson authored a law that allows doctors to provide abortions in cases of preterm premature rupture of membranes and ectopic pregnancies, two serious pregnancy complications. The law, which goes into effect on September 1, was passed with bipartisan support and signed by Republican Governor Greg Abbott. The legislation was carefully crafted to avoid using the term "abortion" and aims to address the confusion and risks faced by doctors treating patients with complicated pregnancies under Texas's restrictive abortion bans. While some critics argue that the law only addresses a small portion of reasons why patients may need abortion care, Johnson sees it as a first step towards expanding access to reproductive healthcare in the state.