Relating to county and hospital district disease control pilot programs to reduce the risk of certain infectious and communicable diseases; authorizing fees.
Impact
The proposed pilot programs would primarily be initiated in specific Texas counties, including Bexar, Dallas, El Paso, Harris, Nueces, Travis, and Webb. These programs would allow for activities such as the anonymous exchange of used hypodermic needles for new ones and outreach to promote education on the prevention of disease transmission. This approach is intended to protect the public's health while also providing necessary treatment referrals, which could significantly change how local health authorities operate in tackling drug use and its associated health risks.
Summary
House Bill 3174, also known as the Honorable Ruth Jones McClendon Act, proposes the establishment of county and hospital district disease control pilot programs aimed at reducing the transmission of infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. The bill emphasizes the necessity of cooperation with community-based and faith-based organizations to facilitate education and treatment for addiction, and aims to mitigate the societal impacts of drug abuse on families. By authorizing fees for participating organizations and coordinating with health services, the bill lays out a framework to combat substance-related health crises through expanded public health initiatives.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB 3174 appears to be generally supportive among public health advocates, who recognize the need for comprehensive strategies to address drug addiction and the associated diseases. However, there may be concerns from community members and local policymakers regarding the implementation of such programs, particularly regarding public safety and the management of needle exchanges. As such, while the bill aims to foster a health-focused dialogue, it may face resistance based on differing opinions about its efficacy and safety.
Contention
Notable points of contention regarding HB 3174 may stem from the implementation specifics of the needle exchange programs, with some fearing they could potentially enable drug use rather than discourage it. Additionally, skepticism may arise over the adequacy of funding and resources necessary for these programs to succeed. Ensuring compliance with public safety laws while facilitating necessary health services presents a careful balancing act that lawmakers will need to navigate as they consider the bill's future.
Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected
Health And Safety Code
Chapter 81. Communicable Diseases; Public Health Disasters; Public Health Emergencies
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 481. Texas Controlled Substances Act
Section: 125
Section: 125
Government Code
Chapter 1. General Provisions
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Section: New Section
Chapter 526. Additional Powers And Duties Of Commission And Executive Commissioner
Relating to the establishment by certain counties and hospital districts of disease control pilot programs to reduce the risk of certain infectious and communicable diseases; authorizing fees.
Relating to infection prevention and control programs and other measures for communicable diseases at certain long-term care facilities; authorizing an administrative penalty.
Relating to judicial review of certain orders issued to address a declared state of disaster, declared public health disaster, or ordered public health emergency or to prevent the spread of a communicable disease.
Relating to authorizing the possession, use, cultivation, distribution, delivery, sale, and research of medical cannabis for medical use by patients with certain medical conditions and the licensing of medical cannabis organizations; authorizing fees.
Relating to the establishment by certain counties and municipalities of disease control programs to reduce the risk of certain infectious and communicable diseases; authorizing fees.
Relating to the establishment by certain counties and municipalities of disease control programs to reduce the risk of certain infectious and communicable diseases; authorizing fees.
Relating to the establishment by certain counties and hospital districts of disease control pilot programs to reduce the risk of certain infectious and communicable diseases; authorizing fees.
Relating to the establishment by certain counties and hospital districts of disease control pilot programs to reduce the risk of certain infectious and communicable diseases; authorizing fees.
Relating to the establishment by certain counties and hospital districts of disease control pilot programs to reduce the risk of certain infectious and communicable diseases; authorizing fees.
Relating to the establishment by certain counties and hospital districts of disease control pilot programs to reduce the risk of certain infectious and communicable diseases; authorizing fees.