TX
Texas Senate Bill SB1901

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB1901

Voted on by Senate
 
Out of House Committee
 
Voted on by House
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to emergency response employees or volunteers and others exposed or potentially exposed to certain diseases or parasites.

Impact

This legislation significantly influences existing health and safety laws by mandating that individuals arrested and who may have exposed first responders to disease must undergo testing. It strengthens the notification process regarding potential exposure by refining the protocol that applies to emergency responders, thus improving the overall management of health risks in emergency scenarios. The incorporation of designated infection control officers in entities that employ emergency responders is a key feature of the bill, establishing a structured response to disease exposure incidents.

Summary

SB1901 seeks to enhance protections and protocols for emergency response employees and volunteers who are exposed or potentially exposed to certain communicable diseases during their work. The bill outlines procedures for testing individuals arrested for crimes who may have come into contact with emergency responders’ bodily fluids. This measure aims to facilitate timely medical evaluations for emergency service personnel while ensuring that their legal rights are respected throughout the process.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB1901 may include debates on privacy concerns related to mandated testing and the implications for the rights of individuals arrested. Some advocates might argue that while the health and safety of emergency responders are paramount, such measures could risk infringing on individual rights by compelling medical procedures without sufficient consent. Others may raise questions regarding the balance between public health initiatives and personal freedoms, as well as the effectiveness of protocols in truly safeguarding emergency response personnel.

Latest SB1901 Activity

Companion Bills

TX HB2770

Identical Relating to emergency response employees or volunteers and others exposed or potentially exposed to certain diseases or parasites.

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