Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Texas Senate Bill SB87

Caption

Relating to reporting and certification requirements by certain physicians regarding certain abortions.

Impact

By enforcing stricter reporting protocols, SB87 aims to enhance monitoring and regulation of abortion practices in Texas. The bill seeks to ensure that physicians document both consent and medical reasons for performing such procedures, thereby increasing oversight in the abortion process. This legislative change could have implications on how healthcare providers manage abortion cases, particularly involving minors, emphasizing the need for parental or judicial consent under certain circumstances.

Summary

SB87 establishes new reporting and certification requirements for physicians who perform abortions. The bill specifically mandates that if a physician performs an abortion on a viable fetus during the third trimester, they must provide written certification to the relevant commission outlining the medical justification for the abortion. This documentation must occur within thirty days following the procedure. Additionally, the bill imposes specific reporting obligations for abortions performed on women younger than 18 years, including outlining the method of consent obtained prior to the procedure.

Conclusion

Ultimately, SB87 represents a critical intersection of healthcare and legislative oversight, aiming to strengthen the health and safety framework surrounding abortion in Texas. The bill underscores ongoing tensions between regulatory oversight and patient access to reproductive healthcare, highlighting the complexities of balancing state interests with individual rights.

Contention

The introduction of SB87 has sparked significant debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Proponents argue that these measures are necessary to promote safety and accountability in abortion practices. They believe that by requiring detailed documentation, the state can better address any potential malpractice or misuse of the procedure. However, opponents contend that the bill imposes unnecessary burdens on physicians and might create barriers for women seeking timely access to abortion services, particularly minors who may already face challenges in obtaining consent.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3588

Relating to an exemption from abortion restrictions for unemancipated minors and the repeal of provisions regarding notice and consent to those abortions.

TX HB2538

Relating to the repeal of provisions related to notice and consent to an abortion on a minor.

TX HB776

Relating to prohibited practices by physicians.

TX HB2764

Relating to self-inducement of an abortion or self-prescription of an abortion-inducing drug by physicians or applicants for a medical license.

TX HB5087

Relating to the regulation of abortion, including abortion complication reporting and the repeal of certain laws prohibiting abortion.

TX HB122

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on providing to certain children procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB41

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria.

TX HB1532

Relating to professional liability insurance coverage for and prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and to the abuse of a child.

TX SB14

Relating to prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and on the use of public money or public assistance to provide those procedures and treatments.

TX HB1686

Relating to prohibitions on the provision to certain children of procedures and treatments for gender transitioning, gender reassignment, or gender dysphoria and on the use of public money or public assistance to provide those procedures and treatments.

Similar Bills

LA HB702

Provides with respect to the practice of physician assistants

HI SB61

Relating To Associate Physicians.

HI SB61

Relating To Associate Physicians.

CO SB083

Physician Assistant Collaboration Requirements

TN SB2136

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to healthcare providers.

TN HB2318

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 55; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to healthcare providers.

TN HB1311

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to graduate physicians.

TN SB0937

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 49; Title 63 and Title 68, relative to graduate physicians.