Texas Senate Bill SB982

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the categorization, collection, and publication of certain demographic and other information pertaining to certain public benefits programs.

Impact

The implementation of SB982 could significantly impact how state agencies address health equity and resource allocation. By requiring detailed demographic data collection, the bill aims to identify disparities in health benefits accessibility and utilization among different groups. It seeks to create a public database that can provide insights into these disparities, potentially guiding future policies and initiatives that better serve underrepresented populations. The bill also ensures compliance with federal privacy laws, emphasizing the confidentiality of individual data while promoting transparency in public health reporting.

Summary

SB982 aims to enhance the collection and publication of demographic data related to public benefits programs in Texas. It mandates that the Health and Human Services Commission and relevant agencies must gather detailed information on recipients of health benefits, including their race, ethnic origin, gender identity, and a variety of health-related factors. Notably, this bill emphasizes the inclusion of various subcategories for race and ethnicity, allowing individuals to specify their identity more accurately. As a result, the bill seeks to create a more nuanced understanding of demographics within the state’s health benefits recipients, which proponents argue is critical for tailoring services and policies effectively.

Contention

While supporters of SB982 argue that accurate demographic data collection is essential for understanding and addressing public health needs, there are concerns regarding privacy and the administrative burden on state agencies. Some critics may view the detailed data collection as intrusive or unnecessary, fearing that it could lead to misuse of personal information. Therefore, a significant discussion point is the balance between the need for comprehensive data to inform health policy and the rights of individuals to privacy and security when sharing personal information. Overall, SB982 presents a proactive approach to health data collection, but it must navigate the complexities surrounding data privacy and individual agency.