Relating to the persons authorized to take a blood specimen from a vehicle operator to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances.
Impact
The bill is expected to streamline and enhance the process of collecting blood samples in intoxication-related cases, particularly during vehicular incidents. By extending the authority to licensed emergency medical technicians, it aims to improve the efficiency of response efforts when law enforcement officers need to conduct tests on drivers suspected of being under the influence. This amendment could potentially lead to quicker responses and more timely evidence collection, which is crucial in DUI investigations. As of the last actions recorded, the bill was favorably reported in the Senate with unanimous support, indicating a strong legislative backing for enhancing public safety measures.
Summary
House Bill 434 relates to the individuals authorized to take blood specimens from vehicle operators in order to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances. The legislative proposal amends the Transportation Code, specifically Section 724.017, to expand the list of persons allowed to collect blood samples upon the request of a peace officer. In addition to physicians and qualified technicians, registered professional nurses and licensed vocational nurses are also authorized to perform this task. Notably, the bill introduces licensed or certified emergency medical technicians as individuals permitted to take blood specimens, contingent upon the authorization of their medical director.
Contention
While the bill appears to garner broad support, it does highlight considerations regarding the qualifications of personnel tasked with sensitive responsibilities like blood collection. There may be concerns from various stakeholders regarding the training and expertise required to handle such medical procedures appropriately. Critics could argue that allowing emergency medical technicians to perform this duty without stringent protocols might raise concerns about the integrity of the samples collected and their handling. Nonetheless, the bill does stipulate that the blood collection must be conducted under the oversight of a medical director, which addresses some of these potential issues.
Relating to the authority of a magistrate to issue a search warrant to collect a blood specimen from a person arrested for certain intoxication offenses.
Relating to the authority of a justice of the peace to issue a search warrant to collect a blood specimen from a person arrested for certain intoxication criminal offenses.
Relating to the requirement that a peace officer take possession of a person's driver's license following the person's failure to pass or refusal to consent to a test for intoxication.
Relating to the suspension of the driver's license of a person arrested for an offense involving the operation of a motor vehicle while intoxicated or under the influence of alcohol.
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 protection of persons from participation in a health care service for reasons of conscience; providing a civil remedy; authorizing disciplinary action.
Relating to the persons authorized to draw a blood specimen from a vehicle operator to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances.
Relating to the persons authorized to take a blood specimen from a vehicle operator to test for alcohol concentration or other intoxicating substances.
A bill for an act relating to medical personnel authorized to withdraw a specimen of blood from a person suspected of operating while intoxicated.(See HF 935.)
A bill for an act relating to medical personnel authorized to withdraw a specimen of blood from a person suspected of operating while intoxicated. (Formerly HF 550, HSB 149.)
A bill for an act relating to medical personnel authorized to withdraw a specimen of blood from a person suspected of operating while intoxicated.(Formerly HSB 149; See HF 2136.)
A bill for an act relating to medical personnel authorized to withdraw a specimen of blood from a person suspected of operating while intoxicated.(See HF 550, HF 2136.)