Texas House Bill HB3146

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 3/10/11
• Out of House Committee: 4/26/11
• Voted on by House: 5/4/11
• Refer: 3/18/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/13/11
• Report Pass: 4/19/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/19/11
• Engrossed: 5/4/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 5/5/11
• Report Pass: 5/13/11
• Enrolled: 5/23/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to consent for treatment for chemical dependency in a treatment facility and required training for the facility's intake personnel.

Impact

This bill amends the Health and Safety Code, particularly sections relating to consent for treatment, and defines the responsibilities for providing information about the treatment process. It also introduces new standards for the screening and assessment processes for admissions at these facilities. Such measures could empower patients and create greater transparency in treatment procedures, potentially leading to more effective outcomes for individuals dealing with chemical dependency.

Summary

House Bill 3146 focuses on enhancing the legal framework surrounding consent for treatment for individuals undergoing chemical dependency treatment in facilities. The bill stipulates that consent must be informed and given voluntarily, with specific requirements for how treatment is communicated to the patient or their authorized representative. Notably, it mandates that all explanations must be conveyed in simple, nontechnical language, ensuring that the patient fully understands the implications of their treatment options. This change is designed to prevent coercion and to maintain the dignity and autonomy of the patients seeking help for substance abuse.

Contention

Although the bill serves to protect patients and enhance their rights within treatment facilities, there may be discussions regarding the practicality of implementing the suggested training requirements for intake personnel. Some stakeholders might argue about the adequacy of existing training programs and whether the proposed standards place undue burden on facilities, particularly smaller ones. Additionally, while the emphasis on informed consent is widely supported, questions can arise regarding how these changes will be standardized across different types of facilities and state oversight agencies.