Texas Assigns Dignity to Aborted Babies: 'They Shouldn't Be Treated Like Waste'

A new change is on the way for abortion rules in Texas, designed to acknowledge the dignity of the unborn victims of abortion.

The measure, implemented by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, makes it mandatory for the remains of unborn babies to be buried or cremated.

Right now abortion facilities dispose of the remains in a landfill, along with medical waste.

"Governor Abbott believes human and fetal remains should not be treated like medical waste, and the proposed rule change affirms the value and dignity of all life," said Ciara Matthews, spokeswoman for Texas Gov. Greg Abbott.

The new rule requires abortion clinics or medical facilities to pay for the burial or cremation of the aborted baby.

Opponents complain the move will drive up their costs.

Supporters say the law is not intended to punish the mothers.

"It's about the dignity of human beings," John Seago, legislative director of Texas Right to Life, said.

The measure takes effect Dec. 19.