Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1124

Caption

Relating to establishment of a border public health response team.

Impact

The bill amends the Health and Safety Code to create a framework for the response team, which will assess health infrastructure and develop tailored strategies for addressing public health crises in border counties. This localized approach is expected to improve the state’s capacity to respond to various health threats, such as epidemics or environmental health issues, while also considering cultural and linguistic factors specific to the border population.

Summary

Senate Bill 1124 establishes a Border Public Health Response Team aimed at enhancing public health management in border counties of Texas. This initiative is crucial in responding effectively to public health threats, particularly in areas that often face unique challenges due to their geographical location adjacent to the international border with Mexico. The new team will be composed of various public health professionals, such as epidemiologists and sanitarians, who will be mobilized during declared public health emergencies or disasters.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB1124 appears to be largely positive among legislators, with a strong emphasis on the need for enhanced public health resources in border areas. Supporters view the bill as a critical investment in public health infrastructure, reflecting an acknowledgment of the unique needs and vulnerabilities faced by border communities. The positive reception from both governmental and health advocacy groups speaks to a collective desire to strengthen health responses in these regions.

Contention

While the bill has garnered broad support, some concerns may arise regarding the funding and logistical aspects of implementing the Border Public Health Response Team. Questions may include how the team will coordinate activities with existing local health authorities and whether sufficient resources will be allocated to sustain its functions over time. Additionally, there may be discussions on the adequacy of training and preparedness among team members to respond to diverse public health scenarios effectively.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2151

Relating to the establishment of a border public health multidisciplinary response team within the office of border public health.

TX HB75

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB85

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB37

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB87

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity, and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB1904

Relating to the establishment of a border county mental health task force.

TX HB20

Relating to measures to ensure the safety and welfare of the border region of this state, including protection from ongoing criminal activity and public health threats and the establishment of the Border Protection Unit; creating a criminal offense; creating a civil penalty.

TX HB4440

Relating to state and local government responses to a pandemic disaster, including the establishment of the Pandemic Disaster Legislative Oversight Committee.

TX SB8

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

TX HB5261

Relating to public education, including parental rights and public school responsibilities regarding instructional materials and the establishment of an education savings account program.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.