Incoming Senator Donna Campbell joined Gov. Rick Perry at a press conference on Tuesday to announce initiatives to strengthen the state’s abortion laws, including legislation to limit abortions past 20 weeks.

“It’s time to acknowledge 21st century medicine and technology with 21st century legislation. We need to protect our tiniest and most vulnerable Texans, both born and unborn,” Senator-elect Campbell said. “When the potential is there to feel pain, we must act.”

Ten states have already recognized the need to protect unborn children who are capable of feeling pain while current Texas law allows women to seek abortions up to the 28th week of pregnancy.

“It’s time to strengthen our state’s laws so that they are in line with what science tells us is possible,” Dr. Campbell told the crowd.

Senator-elect Campbell also expressed support for measures that would hold abortion providers to the same medical standards as other surgical centers. Abortion is the second most common surgical procedure in America, and the only one in Texas not currently required to be performed at a hospital, physician’s office or surgical center prior to 16 weeks gestation.

“We should champion women’s health by holding facilities and physicians that perform abortions to the same standards as ambulatory surgery centers and physicians. Our duty is to protect the general welfare of Texans, and I will work everyday to keep Texas strong and healthy.”