Government Relations Director National Association of Social Workers Texas Chapter
SB 8, the “Heartbeat Bill”, goes into effect in Texas on Sept. 1, 2021. The new law allows any private citizen to sue someone for “aiding and abetting” an abortion.
Aiding and abetting is laid out in chapter 7 of the Texas Penal Code, but is quite vague in the context of how that would be applied to a provider or volunteer discussing abortion with a client. This could criminalize a conversation with someone who asks about abortion or providing a referral to an abortion provider. The person filing the suit is eligible to receive up to $10,000 in compensation from the professional, in addition to attorney’s fees.
We ask you to support Texas social workers by sharing the letter attached and our petition below.
Join NASW/TX member Monica Faulkner, PhD, LMSW, and our advocacy to protect social workers’ constitutional rights!
From Dr. Faulkner: Last week I filed a lawsuit against the State of Texas to protect myself, you and future social workers from being sued for doing your job. I ask you to join me by signing on to petition to ask for judicial relief from the unconstitutional provisions of Senate Bill 8 which takes effect September 1, 2021.
Sign the Petition
Alison Mohr Boleware, LMSW
Government Relations Director
National Association of Social Workers Texas Chapter
