Texas House Bill HB377

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

• Filed: 11/25/14

Caption

Relating to consent for the donation of blood or blood components by a minor.

Impact

The introduction of HB 377 carries significant implications for the healthcare system, particularly in how blood banks and donation centers interact with underage individuals. By requiring parental consent for blood donations, the legislation aims to protect minors from making independent medical decisions that may not be fully understood by them without guidance. This aligns with broader public health goals to promote safe practices while also respecting the wishes of families in such decisions.

Summary

House Bill 377 focuses on the regulation of blood donations by individuals under the age of 18. The bill amends existing provisions in the Texas Health and Safety Code, specifically Section 162.015, to clarify that individuals younger than 18 must obtain consent from a parent, guardian, or another legally authorized person before donating blood or its components. Additionally, the bill stipulates that minors are prohibited from receiving compensation for their donations, ensuring that blood donation remains an altruistic act among youth rather than a monetary transaction.

Contention

Although the bill does not appear to have sparked significant controversy in legislative discussions, there are potential areas for contention. Critics of similar legislation in other contexts have sometimes argued that overly restrictive measures on minors' rights to donate blood could limit the overall supply of blood products in healthcare systems. Conversely, advocates assert that parental involvement is critical, especially in matters of medical care, thus supporting the protections put forth in HB 377. The effectiveness of this requirement could hinge on ongoing public education campaigns about the importance of blood donations among youth.