Texas House Bill HB273

Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to the release or disclosure of vaccination or immunization information to certain persons; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

If passed, the bill will introduce civil penalties ranging from $2,000 to $50,000 for violations related to the unauthorized release of vaccination information. The attorney general is empowered to pursue legal action to collect these penalties. These measures signify a strict approach towards maintaining the confidentiality of immunization records and ensuring compliance by health authorities.

Summary

House Bill 273 aims to amend the Health and Safety Code concerning the release and disclosure of vaccination and immunization information. Specifically, it prohibits employees or agents of the department or health authority from disclosing an individual's vaccination information without obtaining written or electronic consent from the individual or their legally authorized representative. This regulation enhances the protection of personal health information amidst ongoing discussions about privacy in health records.

Contention

The provisions of HB273 reflect ongoing national debates concerning individual rights to privacy versus public health interests. While proponents of the bill advocate for stronger protections of individual health information, opponents may argue that the constraints could hinder the effectiveness of public health measures, particularly during emergencies when swift access to vaccination records may be vital. The balance between privacy rights and the needs of health authorities to access records in certain scenarios is likely to be a central point of discussion as the bill moves forward.