Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4552

Caption

Relating to pregnancy resource center reporting requirements.

Impact

The implementation of HB4552 will significantly impact the operations of pregnancy resource centers by mandating them to maintain and report extensive records concerning their patients. This could result in increased administrative burdens for these centers, which may not possess the resources necessary to comply with such reporting standards. However, proponents argue that such measures are essential for ensuring that these centers operate ethically and that patients receive proper care and information. Importantly, the law requires that personal identifying information be removed from the reports submitted to safeguard patient confidentiality.

Summary

House Bill 4552 introduces specific reporting requirements for pregnancy resource centers within Texas. This bill defines what constitutes a pregnancy resource center and outlines their obligations regarding reporting patient data to the state. Centers must provide detailed monthly reports to the Texas Health and Safety Commission, which include demographic information about patients, the nature of services offered, and certain medical details related to pregnancies. This act aims to enhance transparency and oversight of these centers, which do not provide abortions or comprehensive birth control services.

Contention

One notable point of contention surrounding HB4552 is the potential implications for patient privacy and the operational autonomy of pregnancy resource centers. Critics argue that such reporting requirements may deter individuals from seeking services due to fears of data misuse or stigmatization, while supporters believe it ensures accountability and protects vulnerable patients. Additionally, the definition of what constitutes a pregnancy resource center may lead to debates regarding the scope of health services and educational outreach provided by these organizations.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1478

Relating to minimum standards for pregnancy resource centers.

TX SB2381

Relating to the development of a webpage and mobile application for the provision of pregnancy-related resources and information.

TX HB1575

Relating to improving health outcomes for pregnant women under Medicaid and certain other public benefits programs.

TX HB1958

Relating to maternal mortality and morbidity in this state and Medicaid eligibility of and coverage for certain services provided to pregnant women.

TX HB1876

Relating to the Rita Littlefield Chronic Kidney Disease Centralized Resource Center established within the Health and Human Services Commission.

TX SB1354

Relating to the Rita Littlefield Chronic Kidney Disease Centralized Resource Center established within the Health and Human Services Commission.

TX HB663

Relating to the confidentiality and reporting of certain maternal mortality information to the Department of State Health Services and to a work group establishing a maternal mortality and morbidity data registry.

TX SB2199

Relating to protection of individuals from participation in a health care service for reasons of conscience; providing a civil remedy; authorizing disciplinary action.

TX HB2538

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

TX HB2978

Relating to continuing education requirements for certain health care practitioners regarding ectopic pregnancy and pregnancy-related medical emergencies.

Similar Bills

CA AB602

False advertising: pregnancy-related services.

NJ S3545

Provides certain deceptive practices in advertising of pregancy-related services violate the consumer fraud act.

NJ A2145

Provides certain deceptive practices in advertising of pregnancy-related services violate the consumer fraud act.

NJ S2522

Provides certain deceptive practices in advertising of pregnancy-related services violate the consumer fraud act.

NJ A861

Provides certain deceptive practices in advertising of pregnancy-related services violate the consumer fraud act.

NJ A5418

Requires pregnancy centers to disclose certain information in multiple languages.

SC H3504

Pregnancy CARE Act

SC H3012

Pregnancy CARE Act