Choice Ireland

Austin limited pregnancy centers must disclose policies

By: News 8 Austin Staff

Pregnancy centers that don't offer abortion and birth control services will now have to better disclose their policies.

The Austin City Council unanimously passed the new ordinance on first reading, Thursday.

Limited pregnancy centers provide inexpensive pregnancy testing, adoption counseling and assistance to women dealing with unplanned pregnancies. They don't offer services or information on abortion and birth control.

Now they'll have to display that information on a sign at the front door.

Council members who supported the ordinance say it will help young women make better informed choices about where to seek help.

Austin code compliance department will enforce this ordinance. It goes into effect April 19.