Texas House Bill HB2695

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Caption

Relating to information regarding fetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

Impact

By amending Chapter 161 of the Health and Safety Code, HB2695 specifically addresses the responsibilities of healthcare providers concerning FASD. The information required to be provided must undergo review by medical experts and recognized fetal alcohol spectrum disorder organizations, promoting a standardized and scientifically-supported approach to education about potential risks and effects associated with fetal alcohol exposure. This could lead to better-informed decisions by families, ultimately aiming to reduce the incidence of FASD.

Summary

House Bill 2695 aims to enhance awareness and provide crucial information regarding fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD). The bill mandates that health care providers supplying care to expectant mothers or diagnosing children with FASD must provide current, evidence-based information about these disorders to the relevant parties. This proactive approach seeks to ensure that both expectant parents and parents of affected children are well-informed and can make educated decisions regarding their health and well-being.

Contention

One notable aspect of the bill is its attempt to balance the requirement for information dissemination without imposing undue liability on healthcare providers. HB2695 states that it does not create a standard of care that could be the basis for legal action against a provider, thereby protecting them from civil or criminal liability for failing to comply with the information provision if no harm resulted from such failure. This provision aims to encourage compliance while addressing concerns surrounding the legal implications of mandated medical advice.