texas

Police Again Step in as Texas Lawmaker Halts Abortion Bill

Plano state rep says controversial bill will not make it out of committee

Authorities in Texas say they're taking action following social media posts about a Republican lawmaker who has come under fire for blocking an anti-abortion bill.

Republican State Rep. Jeff Leach (R-Plano) said Thursday authorities were monitoring his home but declined further comment. He has refused to advance legislation that would make doctors who perform abortions and their patients potentially subject to the death penalty.

Sgt. Nick Bristow of the Collin County Sheriff's Department said they're "taking steps to address" social media posts. He wouldn't elaborate or give details about posts.

It's the second time Texas authorities have stepped in following the failure of bills pushed by conservative advocates.

Last week, House Speaker Dennis Bonnen said a gun-rights advocate drove to his family residence and was met by state troopers.

The bill in question, HB896, was filed by Tony Tinderholt (R-Arlington), and says that any living child, from the moment of fertilization, is entitled to the same rights, powers and privileges as any other human child and imposes criminal liability on the mother if the child dies from an abortion.

According to the Texas Tribune, Leach said HB896 will not make it out of the House Committee on Judiciary and Civil Jurisprudence, which he chairs.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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