By: Sheffield H.B. No. 3574
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT
relating to employment policies for certain health care providers
in medical and dental units.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
SECTION 1. Section 51.977, Education Code, is amended to
read as follows:
Sec. 51.977. EMPLOYMENT POLICIES FOR NURSES AND ADVANCED
PRACITCE PROVIDERS IN MEDICAL AND DENTAL UNITS. (a) The president
of a medical and dental unit, as defined by Section 61.003, shall
determine whether a nurse, physician assistant, or pharmacist
employed by the unit for patient care or clinical activities is a
full-time employee for purposes of:
(1) Employees group benefits under Chapter 1551 or
1601, Insurance Code;
(2) leave under Chapter 661 or 662, Government Code;
and
(3) longevity pay under Section 659.043, Government
Code.
(b) A determination under Subsection (a) does not entitle an
individual employed in a position listed in that subsection [a
nurse] who works less than 40 hours a week to the full state
contribution to the cost of any coverage or benefits. However, from
money other than money appropriated from the general revenue fund,
the employing medical and dental unit may contribute to that cost
amounts in excess of the state contribution.
SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives
a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as
provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this
Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this
Act takes effect September 1, 2019.