HB 4146

Abstract

Creates the TEXAS Act-The Expanding Abortion Services Act. Provides that any person, other than an officer or employee of the State or a unit of local government, may bring a civil action against any person who: commits an act of sexual assault or domestic abuse or causes an unintended pregnancy, regardless of circumstances; knowingly engages in conduct that aids or abets a sexual assault or domestic abuse or causes an unintended pregnancy, regardless of circumstances; or intends to engage in that act or conduct. Provides that if the plaintiff prevails in an action brought under the Act, the court shall award: (1) injunctive relief sufficient to prevent the defendant from committing or engaging in acts that aid or abet sexual assault or domestic abuse or causing an unintended pregnancy; (2) statutory damages in an amount of not less than $10,000 for each act of sexual assault or domestic abuse or action that causes an unintended pregnancy the defendant committed or aided or abetted, of which not less than $5,000 shall be awarded to the plaintiff and $5,000 shall be placed in a special fund in the State treasury, known as the State Abortion Freedom Expansion Fund, to be used by the Department of Healthcare and Family Services, to pay the costs of abortions for pregnant persons who travel to Illinois from states that prohibit abortions for the purpose of obtaining access to abortions in Illinois; and (3) costs and attorney's fees. Establishes defenses and specifies venue. Defines "abortion", "domestic abuse", "pregnancy", and "sexual assault". Amends the State Finance Act to make conforming changes. Contains a severability provision.