The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services meeting covered a range of bills related to health care regulations and practices. Key discussions included House Bill 1105, which aims to expand access to vaccinations by allowing pharmacists to administer immunizations. There was significant concern voiced about the implications of this bill, particularly from the Texas Pediatric Society, regarding potential fragmentation of care and vaccination access. Other bills discussed included HB1667, which focuses on refining mandatory reporting protocols for child abuse and neglect, aimed at improving the quality of reporting and reducing unsubstantiated claims.
Relating to preventative health care and public health, including prohibited immunization and face-covering requirements, private business or school closures, and the ordering and administration of immunizations by a pharmacist.
Relating to the investigation or determination of abuse or neglect of a child, elderly person, or person with a disability and the provision of certain services.
Relating to the regulation of physicians, the disciplinary authority of the Texas Medical Board, and the administration of the Texas Physician Health Program; increasing a criminal penalty; imposing a surcharge.