Senate Bill 33, attacking abortion support services, would bar local governments from providing practical support to Texans forced to leave the state for abortion care.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 7, 2025
CONTACT: Emily Witt (she/her), [email protected]
AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas House State Affairs Committee today heard public testimony on Senate Bill 33, legislation which would bar municipalities and counties from using public funds to provide practical support services—including travel, lodging, meals, and childcare—for Texans forced to leave the state to access abortion care. The committee left the bill pending following the hearing.
Texas Freedom Network Executive Director Felicia Martin (she/her) issued the following statement:
“At a time when Texans are already facing cruel and unnecessary obstacles to accessing basic reproductive healthcare, this committee has chosen to target the logistical assistance that enables people to receive out-of-state medical care. SB 33 is an outrageous escalation in the state’s relentless campaign to control our bodies and silence our communities.
“SB 33 deliberately targets the lifelines that help people access legal medical care outside of Texas. These are essential resources that allow Texans, especially those with low incomes, young people, communities of color, and rural residents, to exercise their basic rights and obtain time-sensitive healthcare. This bill bullies local governments for doing what state leaders refuse to do: supporting their residents with dignity and compassion. We condemn SB 33 in the strongest possible terms and call on all legislators to reject this cruel and dangerous attack on reproductive freedom and local democracy.”
Senate Bill 33 passed the full Texas Senate on April 16. If the bill is formally passed out of committee, it will next be heard on the House floor.
