Relating to county-regulated disease control programs to reduce the risk of certain communicable diseases for certain counties.
Impact
The passage of HB3707 is significant as it directly amends the Health and Safety Code, introducing Subchapter J to Chapter 81. It empowers counties with a population exceeding 730,000 to establish and regulate these disease control programs independently. By enabling such initiatives, the bill is expected to enhance public health strategies that tackle the spread of infectious diseases, especially in areas where traditional healthcare access may be limited.
Summary
House Bill 3707 aims to establish county-regulated disease control programs specifically designed to reduce the risk associated with certain communicable diseases. This bill allows local health authorities or organizations contracted with public health duties to implement programs focused on disease prevention. Key components of these programs include the anonymous exchange of used needles and syringes for new ones, education on the transmission and prevention of diseases like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C, as well as assistance in accessing health services, particularly for substance abuse treatment.
Contention
Notably, the discussions surrounding HB3707 could involve varying opinions among lawmakers and public health advocates. Proponents may argue that the needle exchange programs can significantly reduce the incidence of communicable diseases, contributing to overall public health improvements. However, there may also be concerns regarding the implementation and funding of these programs, as well as the balance between effective disease control and community safety, with potential opposition from those worried about the implications of enabling needle exchanges.
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 repealing certain offenses and removing certain regulations relating to the cultivation, manufacture, delivery, and possession of marihuana and cannabis.
Requires pharmacies to sell hypodermic syringes and needles to any customer over the age of 18 and post sign concerning consumer right to purchase clean syringes and needles.
Requires pharmacies to sell hypodermic syringes and needles to any customer over the age of 18 and post sign concerning consumer right to purchase clean syringes and needles.
Requires pharmacies to sell hypodermic syringes and needles to any customer over the age of 18 and post sign concerning consumer right to purchase clean syringes and needles.