Texas House Bill HB2592

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to alternatives to abortion organizations; imposing a civil penalty.

Impact

Implementation of HB2592 will require all alternatives to abortion organizations to obtain a license, which will not only weed out unregulated entities but also ensure compliance with defined operational standards. The bill mandates that organizations wishing to operate in this capacity must staff at least one licensed health care practitioner or counselor, thereby emphasizing the necessity for qualified personnel in these settings. While aiming to safeguard patients, this legislation also channels state oversight into these organizations, potentially influencing the services they provide.

Summary

House Bill 2592 seeks to regulate organizations that provide alternatives to abortion by establishing a licensing framework under the Texas Health and Safety Code. These organizations, which include pregnancy counseling and crisis pregnancy centers, are defined as those providing information or services related to pregnancy without performing abortions or referring clients to abortion providers. The bill would enable the Health and Human Services Commission to oversee the licensing, which ensures a certain standard of operation while promoting alternatives to abortion services.

Contention

Opponents of the bill argue that it could impose undue burdens on organizations already limited in their ability to provide comprehensive care and support for women. Concerns have been raised about the balance of state control versus the autonomy of these organizations. Supporters, however, contend that these regulations are necessary to ensure patient safety and to establish a clear framework for operations within the state, thereby reinforcing the goal of promoting alternatives to abortion.