Texas Heartbeat Act

The Texas Heartbeat Act, passed in 2021, is a state law that bans most abortions after a fetal heartbeat can be detected, usually around six weeks of pregnancy. It uniquely allows private citizens to sue anyone who performs or aids in an abortion in violation of the law, rather than the state enforcing the ban directly. This law has sparked significant legal and political debate, as it challenges established abortion rights and raises questions about privacy and individual choice. Critics argue it undermines women's health rights, while supporters see it as a protection for unborn life.