Relating to the collection of reproductive health information; imposing a civil penalty.
Impact
If enacted, HB 2831 will significantly alter how reproductive health data is managed in Texas, specifically by restricting the ways in which organizations can gather and process this sensitive information. Covered entities will be required to provide individuals with clear privacy policies and ensure that consent is specifically tailored and not embedded in broader agreements. This represents an important shift towards more robust privacy protections in healthcare, particularly for individuals seeking reproductive services.
Summary
House Bill 2831 seeks to regulate the collection and handling of reproductive health information by establishing strict guidelines for covered entities, which include any public or private organizations providing reproductive health services. This bill introduces several definitions crucial to its implementation, such as what constitutes reproductive health information, and outlines the obligations of covered entities regarding consent and data use. The legislation limits how reproductive health data can be collected, stored, and sold, requiring explicit consent from individuals before any such activities.
Contention
Debate surrounding HB 2831 arises primarily from concerns over the potential impact on service providers and the implications for reproductive rights. Advocates of the bill argue that it is necessary to safeguard personal privacy and protect individuals from potential misuse of their reproductive health data. Conversely, opponents express concern that strict data collection limitations might hinder the ability of healthcare providers to deliver timely and effective care, potentially impacting public health outcomes. Additionally, the legislation's provisions regarding geofencing, which prevent entities from tracking individuals seeking reproductive health services, may incite further discussion on surveillance and privacy.
Enforcement
The bill grants the Texas Attorney General the authority to initiate legal action against violators of the proposed regulations, allowing for civil penalties for breaches regarding consent or misuse of reproductive health information. Individuals harmed by violations will also have the right to seek damages, highlighting the bill's enforcement mechanisms. By introducing these legal protections and avenues for civil recourse, HB 2831 aims to foster a more accountable environment for the handling of reproductive health data.
Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.
Relating to the regulation of the collection, use, processing, and treatment of consumers' personal data by certain business entities; imposing a civil penalty.
Relating to the development and implementation of the Live Well Texas program to provide health benefit coverage to certain individuals; imposing penalties.
Relating to the capture and use of an individual's biometric identifiers, specimen, or genetic information by a governmental body or peace officer or by a person for commercial purposes; authorizing civil penalties.
Relating to the development and implementation of the Live Well Texas program and the expansion of Medicaid eligibility to provide health benefit coverage to certain individuals; imposing penalties.
Relating to the development and implementation of the Live Well Texas program and the expansion of Medicaid eligibility to provide health benefit coverage to certain individuals; imposing penalties.
Relating to the development and implementation of the Live Well Texas program and the expansion of Medicaid eligibility to provide health benefit coverage to certain individuals; imposing penalties.
Relating to the development and implementation of the Live Well Texas program and the expansion of Medicaid eligibility to provide health benefit coverage to certain individuals; imposing penalties.