Courts have blocked other states from imposing similar restrictions, but Texas’ law differs significantly because it leaves enforcement to private citizens through lawsuits instead of prosecutors through criminal charges. The measure took effect this month after the U.S. Supreme Court declined an emergency appeal from abortion providers asking that it be stayed. The Justice Department is suing Texas, saying in a federal suit that the law was enacted “in open defiance of the Constitution” and violates the Supremacy Clause, which says federal law supersedes state law. Richards said she is concerned that, without a shift in direction, Roe v. Wade could be headed for extinction in more places. "Here in the state of Texas, Roe is no longer in effect ... and all it takes is a Republican governor and a Republican Legislature.

Source: ABC News September 18, 2021 16:41 UTC