Texas House Bill HB3966

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the regulation of limited service pregnancy centers; providing civil penalties.

Impact

The bill modifies existing health and safety regulations, introducing a chapter specifically for limited service pregnancy centers. Centers will be required to submit monthly reports that detail the number of women served, costs incurred, and types of services provided. This information must also be made publicly available on the commission's website, promoting increased transparency and allowing for better oversight of these entities. By enhancing the scrutiny of limited service pregnancy centers, the bill seeks to improve the quality of information offered to women seeking assistance regarding pregnancy.

Summary

House Bill 3966 aims to regulate limited service pregnancy centers by establishing reporting requirements, prohibiting false or misleading statements, and imposing civil penalties for violations. Defined as organizations that provide pregnancy counseling without performing abortions or offering comprehensive birth control services, these centers must adhere to strict guidelines to ensure transparency about the services they provide. The bill seeks to facilitate accountability among these centers, ensuring that they do not misrepresent their offerings or qualifications.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 3966 center on concerns about the potential for overregulation. Supporters argue that greater regulation is necessary to prevent the dissemination of medically inaccurate information, ensuring that women are provided with reliable and truthful information regarding their reproductive health options. However, opponents express fears that the bill could stifle the operations of these centers, which often aim to provide support and resources to pregnant women at little to no cost. The implications of civil penalties for noncompliance might deter these centers from operating altogether or limit their capacity to offer essential services.