NEW TEXAS LAWS EFFECTIVE SEPTEMBER 1, 2003

ABORTION

A 24-hour waiting period will now be required. Women will be provided with a packet of materials on the development of a fetus that encourages them to maintain the pregnancy. Abortions must be performed at a hospital if the pregnancy is 16 weeks or more.

RECOGNITION OF THE UNBORN

Creates new criminal and civil penalties for harming a fetus. For the first time, establishes that a fetus is an individual under the law.