Texas House Bill HB1495

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to authorizing the electronic transmission of certain communications related to the prevention of communicable diseases.

Impact

The introduction of HB1495 could significantly impact state laws regarding the methods of notifying individuals about health-related orders and actions. By permitting email as a legal form of communication, the bill potentially speeds up the notification process, enabling the health department to reach individuals more quickly. This could be particularly beneficial in public health emergencies where immediate notification of exposure or health measures is vital to controlling the spread of disease.

Summary

House Bill 1495 proposes amendments to the Health and Safety Code concerning the electronic transmission of communications related to the prevention of communicable diseases. The bill allows for documents that are traditionally required to be delivered in person or via registered mail to now be sent via email, provided that a read receipt is requested. This change aims to enhance the efficiency of communication for public health matters, particularly in situations involving communicable diseases where timely information dissemination is crucial.

Contention

However, there may be concerns regarding the reliance on electronic communication for such essential notifications. Critics might argue about the accessibility and reliability of email as a medium, especially for individuals who may not have regular access to digital devices or the internet. Furthermore, issues of privacy and data security in the transmission of health-related information could be raised, prompting discussions on whether such measures adequately protect sensitive information.