Texas House Bill HB1357

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of House Committee: 4/28/09
• Voted on by House: 5/12/09
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/21/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/26/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 6/1/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the regulation of freestanding emergency medical care facilities; providing an administrative penalty; creating an offense.

Impact

One major impact of HB1357 is the introduction of clear definitions and guidelines for what constitutes a freestanding emergency medical care facility. The bill stipulates that any facility wishing to operate as such must obtain a separate license, and outlines the criteria for granting this license, including staffing requirements and adherence to health codes. This framework is designed to prevent unlicensed facilities from operating and to ensure a consistent standard of care across the state, thus potentially improving patient outcomes.

Summary

House Bill 1357 relates to the regulation of freestanding emergency medical care facilities in Texas. The bill proposes the establishment of licensing requirements for these facilities, which operate separately from hospitals but provide crucial emergency care services. The new legislation aims to ensure that these facilities meet specified health and safety standards before they can be licensed, as well as to enforce compliance through inspections and administrative penalties. By introducing this regulatory framework, the bill seeks to enhance the quality and reliability of emergency care services available to Texans.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB1357 may arise from varying opinions on the balance between regulation and operational flexibility for healthcare providers. Proponents argue that regulating freestanding facilities is crucial for patient safety and care quality, while opponents might contend that excessive regulation could hinder these facilities' ability to provide timely emergency services. Additionally, discussions may also focus on the implications of administrative penalties for facilities that fail to comply with the new standards, raising concerns about the potential for punitive measures to affect operations.