Texas Senate Bill SB1211

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 4/7/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/15/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/21/09
• Voted on by House: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/28/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to the liability of a volunteer audiologist, assistant in audiology, speech-language pathologist, or assistant in speech-language pathology.

Impact

The implementation of SB1211 would impact existing state laws relating to the liability protections previously afforded to volunteer health care providers. By expanding the definition to include additional roles within audiology and speech-language pathology, this bill could enhance the landscape of volunteer healthcare services in Texas. This could lead to an increase in the number of professionals willing to provide services pro bono, particularly in communities lacking sufficient access to these specialized healthcare services. As there is an ongoing demand for speech and hearing services, the bill's passage could help meet those needs through volunteerism.

Summary

SB1211 addresses the liability issues faced by volunteer audiologists, assistant audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and their respective assistants when providing their services without compensation. The bill aims to clarify the legal protections offered to these professionals under Texas law, thereby encouraging more licensed individuals to engage in volunteer work within their fields without the fear of extensive legal repercussions. By explicitly identifying these roles under the definition of 'volunteer health care provider', the bill seeks to improve access to audiology and speech-language services for underserved populations.

Contention

While the bill was generally supported by healthcare advocates aiming to strengthen volunteer healthcare services, some concerns were raised about ensuring that the quality of care provided by volunteers remains high. Critics expressed the importance of maintaining rigorous standards in health care, even among volunteers, suggesting that while liability protections are beneficial, they should not compromise the quality and accountability of services. Furthermore, discussions around the potential for abuse of these protections were noted, emphasizing the need for oversight to ensure that volunteer services do not inadvertently replace standard, paid healthcare options especially in critical care situations.