On August 19, 2025, Texas Governor Greg Abbott signed Senate Bill 33 into law. The measure now prohibits cities and counties—including Austin and potentially San Antonio—from using taxpayer dollars to support abortion-related logistics such as travel, lodging, and meals when women seek abortions out of state.
The legislation responds to prior actions by local governments. Notably, the Austin City Council had approved a $400,000 fund to assist women with airfare, hotels, and food for out-of-state abortion travel. San Antonio was also considering a similar program before a Texas appellate court forced it to halt implementation.
Policy critics have described this funding as both “dangerous and wasteful,” arguing that taxpayer money should not be used to facilitate abortion services. Jonathan Covey, Policy Director at Texas Values, praised Governor Abbott’s signature as upholding taxpayers’ intent and protecting the sanctity of life in Texas.
SB 33 builds on previous pro-life legislation from the 86th Texas Legislature, including SB 22, which barred government entities from contracting directly with abortion providers. The bill reinforces the state’s cautious approach to limiting public involvement in abortion access.
The new law a down-to-earth reaffirmation of Texas’s pro-life, taxpayer-respecting values. By closing loopholes that existed at the municipal level, Texas ensures that public funds will not indirectly subsidize abortion.
Discussion about this post