Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4069

Filed
3/8/23  
Out of House Committee
4/25/23  
Voted on by House
5/12/23  
Out of Senate Committee
5/19/23  
Voted on by Senate
5/23/23  
Governor Action
6/11/23  

Caption

Relating to the required disclosure of prices by a veterinarian before providing emergency treatment to an ill or injured animal.

Impact

The passage of HB 4069 represents a significant shift in how emergency veterinary services are approached, particularly regarding cost disclosure. Under the new law, the State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners is required to adopt rules ensuring that veterinarians inform animal owners about the necessary treatments and their estimated prices prior to providing care. This could impact state laws related to the veterinary profession, contributing to a more consumer-oriented approach in veterinary medical practices.

Summary

House Bill 4069, known as the Scout Meyer Act, mandates veterinarians to provide written disclosure of the estimated costs and treatments before administering emergency care to animals. This legislation aims to enhance transparency in veterinary practices, especially during critical situations when pet owners are faced with the urgency of making quick decisions about their animals' healthcare. The bill was introduced to alleviate the potential financial burden on pet owners and to foster trust between veterinarians and pet owners in emergency situations.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 4069 has generally been positive within legislative discussions, as reflected in the strong majority vote during the third reading—158 in favor compared to 7 against. Supporters praise the bill for promoting transparency and protecting consumers, whereas some detractors have raised concerns about possible increases in the cost of care or the administrative burden it may place on veterinarians. Nevertheless, the overarching agreement seems to be that informed decision-making is beneficial for both pet owners and veterinarians alike.

Contention

While the bill was largely supported, certain points of contention arose during discussions. Critics questioned whether the mandated disclosures would result in unintended consequences, such as discouraging pet owners from seeking necessary emergency services due to cost apprehensions. However, proponents of the bill emphasized that transparency could ultimately lead to better-informed decisions and greater satisfaction among clients. The debate continues to reflect the balance between ensuring animal welfare and providing financial clarity in the veterinary field.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

  • Chapter 801. Veterinarians
    • Section: 3581
    • Section: 3581
    • Section: 3581
    • Section: 3581

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1453

To Require Emergency Veterinary Treatment Of Animals By Veterinary Practices And Veterinarians; And To Create The Animal Emergency Veterinary Treatment Act.

TX AB2215

Veterinarians: cannabis: animals.

TX HB06303

An Act Concerning The Treatment Of Ill And Injured Animals In Municipal Animal Shelters.

TX A5256

Requires publication of prices of standard and emergency services provided by veterinarians.

TX S3137

Requires publication of prices of standard and emergency services provided by veterinarians.

TX A4637

Requires certain consumer disclosures relating to rabies testing and establishes optional training for veterinarians.

TX S3692

Requires certain consumer disclosures relating to rabies testing and establishes optional training for veterinarians.

TX SB609

Relating To Veterinarians.

TX HB2390

Relating to the medical treatment and care of animals by certain persons in animal shelters and releasing agencies.

TX SB1084

Relating to the medical treatment and care of animals by certain persons in animal shelters and releasing agencies.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.