Texas House Bill HB195

Texas 2017 - 85th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to reporting requirements by certain physicians and health care facilities for abortion complications; authorizing a civil penalty.

Impact

The bill's implementation will likely have significant implications for how abortion procedures are monitored in Texas. This legislation allows for civil penalties against any violator, with fines of $500 per infraction and possible revocation of medical licenses after repeated violations. Importantly, it stipulates that all personal identifying information of patients must remain confidential, aiming to protect patient privacy while still collecting necessary data. These measures give state agencies the tools to identify trends and address potentially systemic issues in abortion care and patient safety.

Summary

House Bill 195 introduces new reporting requirements for physicians and health care facilities relating to complications from abortions. It mandates that any abortion complications diagnosed or treated by a physician or at a health care facility must be reported to the state. The aim of this bill is to enhance oversight of abortion-related health outcomes, with the hope of improving patient safety and care. Reporting must occur within specific timelines—physicians must report within 72 hours and health care facilities within 30 days of treating a complication. Complications include severe conditions such as shock, hemorrhage, and even death, and identifying factors such as the patient's demographic information is also required.

Contention

Despite the bill's objective of improving healthcare standards, it could provoke significant debate among lawmakers and advocacy groups. Supporters argue that it is a necessary public health measure to ensure that complications are adequately tracked and managed. On the other hand, opponents may view this as an overreach that could impose undue burdens on healthcare providers, potentially discouraging them from practicing in settings that provide abortion services. The bill could spark further legislative discussions about women's health rights and the balance between regulatory oversight and medical practice autonomy.