Texas House Bill HB1354

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to members of the clergy who are employed or voluntarily enter inpatient health care facilities to minister during a state of disaster, emergency, or epidemic.

Impact

The passage of HB 1354 would represent a significant change in the regulations surrounding visitation rights in health care facilities during declared public health emergencies. By establishing mandatory visitation for clergy, the bill enhances access to spiritual care for patients during some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives. This aligns with efforts to provide holistic patient care that considers both physical and spiritual needs. Moreover, healthcare facilities could adapt their visitation policies within a framework that prioritizes both patient welfare and safety.

Summary

House Bill 1354 addresses the rights of members of the clergy to minister to patients within inpatient health care facilities during states of disaster, emergencies, or epidemics. The bill mandates that these facilities allow clergy visits whenever specifically requested by a patient or resident. It includes provisions that ensure consideration for patients receiving end-of-life care, thereby emphasizing the bill's intent to respect and facilitate religious practices during critical health crises. The bill aims to protect the religious liberties of patients while also providing legal safeguards for health care facilities against potential lawsuits related to religious discrimination.

Contention

While proponents argue that the bill enriches patients' rights to access spiritual support, critics may raise concerns about how these regulations might conflict with existing health safety protocols, especially during contagious outbreaks. There is potential contention regarding the balance between ensuring access to clergy and the risk of transmitting infectious diseases. The bill provides room for health facilities to implement reasonable restrictions to mitigate such risks, but the adequacy of these measures in protecting both patients and staff could be a subject of debate.