Texas Senate Bill SB80

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 11/8/10
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/14/11
• Voted on by Senate: 3/24/11
• Refer: 1/31/11
• Out of House Committee: 5/11/11
• Report Pass: 3/14/11
• Voted on by House: 5/20/11
• Engrossed: 3/24/11
• Governor Action: 6/17/11
• Refer: 3/30/11
• Report Pass: 5/5/11
• Enrolled: 5/21/11
• Passed: 6/17/11

Caption

Relating to public health laboratories administered by the Department of State Health Services.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly impact state laws regarding how public health laboratories manage their operations and finances. By instituting more rigorous billing processes and accountability measures, SB80 aims to ensure that the laboratories operate sustainably while providing crucial health services. Proper inventory tracking and the establishment of billing protocols are also designed to ensure that taxpayers' money is utilized effectively and that all laboratory activities are documented and accounted for.

Summary

SB80 focuses on improving the operations of public health laboratories administered by the Department of State Health Services in Texas. The bill intends to implement the recommendations from a previous audit conducted by the State Auditor's Office, aiming to enhance the efficiency and accountability of laboratory services. Key provisions include the resumption of billing for tests conducted at the South Texas Laboratory and establishing protocols to ensure that tests are billed appropriately, particularly focusing on Medicaid-eligible services.

Contention

A notable point of contention may arise surrounding the billing practices for laboratory services, particularly regarding the potential impact on vulnerable populations who rely on Medicaid. The bill’s provisions requiring stringent billing and fee-setting methodologies could raise concerns about access to necessary tests and services for Medicaid recipients. Some stakeholders may argue that increased focus on billing could detract from the laboratories' primary mission of public health service, emphasizing the need for a balance between fiscal responsibility and service delivery.