The Story
How the GRACE Act took shape
Austin Council Member José “Chito” Vela invited reproductive justice groups, including AJC, the Lilith Fund, and Avow Texas, to help shape the city’s response after the reversal of Roe v. Wade. The resulting GRACE Act directed Austin police to place abortion-related investigations at the lowest possible priority.
Local power and its limits
The resolution focused on how Austin uses police resources, rather than changing state law. The Nation’s reporting explains the difference between a city directive and a legal prohibition, as well as exceptions in cases involving coercion or harm to the pregnant person.
Justice across issues
AJC’s Rockie Gonzalez discussed how abortion criminalization falls hardest on low-income communities and people of color. The story also traces earlier Austin investments in practical abortion access, the role of the Travis County district attorney, and potential challenges from the state.
Mary Tuma · The Nation
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