AUSTIN, TEXAS — The Texas House Democratic Caucus joins millions of Americans in mourning the loss of Cecile Richards. Richards, a reproductive freedom activist and political organizer who followed in her mother's footsteps, will be remembered as one of our era’s greatest champions for freedom, equality, and equity across the gender divide.
“Cecile Richards was a tireless force for women's rights in Texas and across the nation.” said House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu. “As we enter into a new era of Republican attacks on women, Texans should know that House Democrats will not rest until we realize Cecile’s goals: ensure every Texan woman has the access to care they need, deliver reproductive freedom to every woman in Texas, and ensure gender equity in education and workforce pay.”
Texas ranks third-from-last in the nation on maternal mortality, had the highest number of infant deaths of any state in the most recent available statistics, and has experienced dozens of preventable deaths under the draconian abortion ban passed by Texas Republicans. In the 2025 Texas legislative session, Texas House Democrats have committed to delivering for Texans on the policies Cecile Richards championed throughout her life. Texas House Democrats have introduced legislation in the 2025 session to fix the failed Republican Heartbeat Act, lower infant and maternal mortality, and restore access to reproductive healthcare stripped by GOP legislation.