Texas House Bill HB3307

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to the authority of an emergency services district to provide public health services; authorizing a fee.

Impact

The implications of HB 3307 for state law are significant, as it redefines the scope of responsibilities that emergency services districts can undertake. By explicitly incorporating public health services into their purview, the bill allows these districts to play a more active role in health promotion and disease prevention efforts. This shift may lead to improved health outcomes in communities that are served by these districts, particularly in underserved areas where such services are critically needed. Furthermore, allowing districts to charge fees may create new revenue streams that fund additional health programs and services.

Summary

House Bill 3307 aims to expand the authority of emergency services districts in Texas by allowing them to provide public health services. Specifically, the bill amends the Health and Safety Code to include provisions for emergency services districts to contract with state or local governments to deliver these health services. Additionally, the bill authorizes these districts to charge reasonable fees for the services provided, thereby potentially increasing funding for public health initiatives at the local level. The legislation reflects a growing recognition of the role emergency services can play in broader health service delivery.

Sentiment

The sentiment among legislators regarding HB 3307 appears to be largely supportive, as evidenced by the overwhelming approval of the bill during voting, with only one dissenting vote recorded. Proponents argue that enhancing the capabilities of emergency services districts is essential for addressing public health challenges effectively. They contend that local authorities are best positioned to assess and respond to the unique health needs of their communities. However, some concerns may exist around the potential for increased costs to the public if fees for health services become burdensome, though these concerns did not dominate the discussions.

Contention

Notably, while HB 3307 is generally well-received, a point of contention could arise regarding how the authorized fees for public health services might be implemented and regulated. Critics may argue that introducing fees could limit access to necessary health services, particularly for low-income populations. Additionally, there is the potential for discrepancies in service availability and quality across different districts, depending on local governance and resource allocation. Thus, while the bill enhances the operational capabilities of emergency services districts, it simultaneously raises questions about equity and access in public health service delivery.