The duties of the Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee and the collection, maintenance, and disclosure of maternal health records regarding voluntary termination of pregnancy

Texas Senate Bill 1831, introduced in 2025, aimed to expand the responsibilities of the Texas Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee. The bill proposed that the committee study and review cases of pregnancy-related deaths and severe maternal morbidity, including those associated with voluntary termination of pregnancy. Additionally, it sought to amend existing laws to allow the collection, maintenance, and disclosure of maternal health records related to voluntary terminations of pregnancy, which were previously excluded. The bill was referred to the Health & Human Services Committee but did not progress further and died in committee.

Supporters of SB1831 argued that including data on voluntary terminations of pregnancy would provide a more comprehensive understanding of maternal health issues in Texas. They believed that this inclusion could lead to better-informed policies and interventions aimed at reducing maternal mortality and morbidity rates across the state.

Opponents of the bill expressed concerns that collecting and disclosing records related to voluntary terminations of pregnancy could infringe on patient privacy and potentially be used to further restrict abortion rights. They feared that such measures might deter individuals from seeking necessary medical care or from being honest with healthcare providers, ultimately compromising maternal health outcomes.