PORTLAND, Ore. — As backlash from the restrictive abortion law that went into effect in Texas last week continues, it looks like the state could be dealt an economic blow from Oregon.
The Portland City Council on Wednesday is scheduled to vote on an emergency resolution that would prohibit trade between the city and Texas as well as city business travel to the Lone Star State.
“The ban will be in effect until the state of Texas withdraws its unconstitutional ban on abortion or until it is overturned in court. City legal counsel is currently evaluating the legal aspects of this proposed resolution,” a news release from the city states. “The Portland City Council stands unified in its belief that all people should have the right to choose if and when they carry a pregnancy and that the decisions they make are complex, difficult, and unique to their circumstances.”
The new Texas law prohibits abortions once medical professionals can detect cardiac activity, usually around six weeks — before some women know they’re pregnant. Courts have blocked other states from imposing similar restrictions, but Texas’ law differs significantly because it leaves enforcement up to private citizens through lawsuits instead of criminal prosecutors.
The law went into effect last week after the U.S. Supreme Court in a 5-4 vote declined to block the law. It was a move some critics say didn’t take the landmark 1973 Roe v. Wade decision into account.
“This law does not demonstrate concern for the health, safety, and well-being of those who may become pregnant. This law does not recognize or show respect for the human rights of those who may become pregnant,” the news release from the City of Portland continues. “This law rewards private individuals for exercising surveillance and control over others’ bodies. It violates the separation of church and state. And, it will force people to carry pregnancies against their will.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.