The Texas Policy Evaluation Project (TxPEP) is a multidisciplinary group of researchers across the state who evaluate the impact of legislation and policies in Texas related to contraception and abortion. Based at The University of Texas at Austin Population Research Center, we aim to generate and disseminate high-impact research that can inform evidence-based reproductive health policies and services that support more equitable care for all Texans.
Origins and Approach
TxPEP began in the fall of 2011 with the purpose of documenting the effects of legislation that cut funding for state family planning programs by two-thirds and made organizations such as Planned Parenthood ineligible to participate. Over the years, the focus of our work has evolved in order to remain responsive to the dynamic service and policy landscape in Texas and the priorities for community and advocacy organizations and other stakeholders.
Our research illustrates the impact of policies on people’s lives and abilities to access care, particularly Latinx, Black, and low-income communities. By working with partners in the reproductive justice and rights ecosystem, we ensure our research can be used to support civic engagement, coalition and movement building, and advocacy for policies and services that improve comprehensive reproductive healthcare in Texas.