Lubbock residents will vote May 1 on whether or not Lubbock will become a “Sanctuary City for the Unborn.” The last day to register to vote in the election is April 1.
Lubbock’s city council voted down the citizen-led ordinance in November. The initiating committee, led by abortion-rights opponents, then filed a request to put the ordinance to a public vote, as allowed by the City of Lubbock's charter.
Lubbock is one of dozens of Texas municipalities to consider adopting a “sanctuary city” ordinance that seeks to ban abortion within city limits. As written, the edict would allow family members of an aborted fetus to sue the abortion provider, or anyone who assisted the pregnant woman with obtaining the procedure, for emotional damages. This could include a person who helped pay for the abortion or provided transportation to the appointment.
None of the current 22 Texas communities that have so far passed such a measure have an abortion provider. The largest city to do so, Big Spring, has one-tenth the population of Lubbock.
Planned Parenthood reopened in Lubbock last year. The clinic intends to offer medical and surgical abortions at some point in 2021.
Lubbock has historically seen low voter turnout for “off-year” special elections. In the May 2019 special election, just over 6% of registered voters cast a ballot. Also on the May 1 ballot is a proposed school bond for Lubbock Cooper Independent School District.
The last day to register to vote for the May election is April 1. Early voting starts Monday, April 19 and ends Tuesday April, 27. Check if you’re registered or learn how to register to vote here.
Important Dates for May 1, elections:
Last day to register to vote: April 1, 2021
Early voting in-person: April 19-April 27
Last day to apply for ballot by mail: April 20
Last day to receive ballot by mail: May 1 at 7p.m.
