Texas Senate Bill SB346

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 3/17/09
• Voted on by Senate: 4/2/09
• Out of House Committee: 4/17/09
• Voted on by House: 4/24/09
• Governor Action: 5/5/09
• Enrolled: 4/24/09
• Passed: 5/5/09

Caption

Relating to information submitted to and maintained in the immunization registry after an individual becomes an adult.

Impact

The passage of SB346 is expected to enhance privacy protections for those entering adulthood by reinforcing the requirement for explicit consent for inclusion in the immunization registry. This change could significantly affect how health agencies, schools, and insurance companies handle immunization records and the process for consent verification. By eliminating the authority of parents to consent for their children once they reach the age of majority, the bill promotes individual autonomy over personal health decisions, ensuring adults have the final say in sharing their health information.

Summary

SB346 pertains to the management and maintenance of immunization records as individuals transition into adulthood. The bill modifies how data concerning immunizations is collected and used, particularly changing the consent requirements for individuals once they reach the age of 18. With provisions for how consent must be documented and the circumstances under which immunization records can be retained, the bill underscores the importance of ensuring an individual's control over their own health information. Additionally, the bill mandates that notifications regarding their immunization status must be sent to individuals as they approach their 18th birthday, allowing them to decide if they want to remain in the immunization registry.

Contention

While supporters of the bill argue that it empowers individuals and protects their health information, concerns exist regarding the potential impact on public health initiatives. Opponents may argue that creating barriers to access immunization records could hinder efforts to ensure widespread vaccination, particularly in young adults who may not be as proactive about maintaining their health records. Furthermore, there is a debate about whether the bill effectively balances the rights of individuals with the need for public health oversight and monitoring.