Part 3/6:
Historically, the committee has skipped over certain years in its reviews. However, the current context—with a staggering 56% increase in maternal death rates between 2019 and 2022—makes this particular omission particularly alarming.
Political Influence
Further complicating matters is the appointment of a prominent anti-abortion advocate to the review committee by Governor Greg Abbott's administration, which is also responsible for the abortion ban itself. This move raises questions about the impartiality of the committee and its ability to conduct a fair examination of the rising maternal mortality rates. Critics argue that such appointments could lead to biases in assessing care practices and policies, ultimately undermining the mission to ensure maternal health in Texas.