Texas House Bill HB306

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to the medical advisory board.

Impact

If passed, the bill will enhance the board's oversight and advisory functions by including members with relevant public safety backgrounds. The appointment of professionals from the Department of Public Safety is expected to bring additional expertise to the decision-making processes related to medical licensure and evaluations. This inclusion can potentially lead to more informed recommendations on public health and safety matters as they relate to medical licensing.

Summary

House Bill 306 aims to amend the Texas Health and Safety Code regarding the composition and responsibilities of the medical advisory board. This bill stipulates that the commissioner must appoint members who are licensed to practice medicine and optometry in Texas, ensuring that they are jointly recommended by respective professional associations. A significant change introduced by this bill is the requirement for at least one representative from specific agencies, including the Department of Public Safety, to be a part of the medical advisory board.

Contention

One point of contention regarding HB 306 may arise from the implications of incorporating members from law enforcement and public safety agencies into a medical advisory board. Critics might argue that medical decisions should be made solely by healthcare professionals without influence from law enforcement entities, fearing that it could introduce biases in medical evaluations. Supporters, however, could contend that such integration is necessary for addressing issues at the intersection of health and public safety.