TX extends bounty hunter model to abortion pills

HB 7 authorizes private citizens to sue those who manufacture, distribute, mail, deliver, prescribe, or otherwise provide abortion-inducing drugs to or from Texas. The law exempts pregnant patients from being sued, and includes limited exceptions such as medical emergencies and ectopic pregnancy. Signed on September 3, 2025, the law will go into effect on December 4, 2025.

Why it matters
There are two major takeaways: First, medication abortion is the most common method in the US, equating to 6 out of every 10 abortions nationally. And that doesn't include women who end pregnancies at home using doctor-prescribed medication. Second, the ability of Texas citizens to file lawsuits against abortion pill providers (doctors, manufacturers, distributors) outside the state makes this state law a national problem.

Critics assert that HB7 intends to test interstate defenses like shield laws that several pro-choice states erected when Roe v Wade was overturned, potentially restricting medication abortion nationwide if providers fear lawsuits.

Background
Under the bill, abortion pill providers could be ordered to pay up to $100,000. But only the pregnant woman, the man who impregnated her, or other close relatives could collect the entire amount. Anyone else who sues could receive a maximum of $10,000, with the remaining $90,000 going to charity.

Lawmakers also added language to address worries that women would be turned in for seeking to end pregnancies by men who raped them or their abusive partners. For instance, a man who impregnated a woman through sexual assault would not be eligible. However, the woman would first have to prove the assault charge.