In response to the implementation of the Texas fetal heartbeat law on September 1, 2021, pregnant women in Texas have been forced to seek abortion care outside the state. Many of these women have been traveling to New Mexico, where abortion remains legal. The journey has become a logistical challenge for those affected, with transportation costs and other expenses adding to the burden.

One of the ways Texans have been traveling to New Mexico is by the Sunset Limited, an Amtrak passenger train. Departing from San Antonio, the train takes approximately 12 hours to reach the El Paso station, from where it is just a short rideshare trip to the closest abortion clinic in New Mexico.

At the Women's Reproductive Clinic, located less than a mile from the Texas state line, women are greeted by a large yellow sign that reads "Welcome East Texans to New Mexico, Land of Enchantment." Here, women like Doris, who asked to remain anonymous, have found refuge and the care they need. Doris voices her concerns about abortion being perceived as an easy decision, highlighting the complexity and emotional weight it carries.

Doris made the decision to end her pregnancy early because she did not feel prepared for the responsibilities of motherhood. She emphasizes that people often overlook the myriad of reasons why individuals choose to have abortions. Her boyfriend echoes her sentiments, stating that the choice to have or not have a child should always be available, as it can significantly impact someone's life.

The financial burden of traveling out of state for abortion care is a major challenge for many Texans. Doris's boyfriend's mother, who is supporting the couple financially, acknowledges the emotional, mental, and financial strain these journeys impose. Not everyone has the means to seek reproductive medical care in another state, making the situation even more difficult for those affected.

According to data scientist Isaac Maddow-Zimet from the Guttmacher Institute, abortions in New Mexico have seen a staggering 220 percent increase since 2020, primarily due to the influx of Texans seeking reproductive medical care. This surge in numbers reflects the determination of people to make the journey to abortion-legal states despite the challenges they face. It is evident that Texans are finding ways to access the necessary care, even after the landmark Roe v. Wade decision came to an end.

The series "Planes, Trains, and Automobiles: Evading the Texas Abortion Ban" brings attention to the stories of Texans compelled to travel outside the state for reproductive medical care, shedding light on the difficult choices they are forced to make. Traveling to another state for abortion care entails substantial costs, both financial and logistical, making it a daunting prospect for many individuals.

As the Texas abortion ban continues to have a significant impact on the lives of pregnant Texans, the resilience and determination of those seeking reproductive medical care is clear. The journey to New Mexico serves as a stark reminder of the obstacles faced and the lengths individuals are willing to go for their reproductive rights.