TX SB1204

Amends the Penal Code definition of "individual" to include an unborn child at every stage of "development" (changed from "gestation") from fertilization until birth, making criminal code provisions apply equally to violations against unborn children

Removes existing civil liability exemptions for physicians and health care providers who perform lawful medical procedures or dispense drugs that result in the death of an unborn child, leaving only the mother exempt from wrongful death claims

Eliminates criminal liability exemptions for lawful medical procedures, assisted reproduction procedures, and lawful drug dispensation that result in an unborn child's death, retaining only the exemption for conduct by the mother

Creates a narrow criminal justification defense for physicians performing lawful medical procedures only when: the procedure was performed to avert the pregnant woman's death, the unborn child's death was accidental or unintentional, and reasonable alternatives to save the unborn child were unavailable or attempted unsuccessfully

Takes effect immediately with two-thirds legislative vote, or September 1, 2025; applies only to offenses committed and causes of action accruing after the effective date