Texas Senate Bill SB17

Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Caption

Relating to protection of individuals from participation in a health care service for reasons of conscience; providing a civil remedy; authorizing disciplinary action.

Impact

The bill modifies existing laws under the Health and Safety Code by adding specific provisions that delineate the rights of health care providers in declining to provide care based on conscience. It includes safeguards to prevent any discriminatory actions against providers who opt out for these reasons. Health care facilities are mandated to develop protocols ensuring a timely transfer of care when a provider declines involvement in life-sustaining treatment, safeguarding patient needs while respecting provider beliefs.

Summary

SB17, also referred to as the Texas Health Care Conscience Protection Act, aims to protect health care providers who decline participation in certain health care services based on their moral or ethical beliefs. This legislation acknowledges the right of health care providers to refuse to participate in services they find morally objectionable without facing adverse professional consequences. Importantly, the bill establishes that such refusals must not impede a patient's access to necessary health care services, particularly in emergencies or life-sustaining situations.

Contention

Notable areas of contention surrounding SB17 include concerns from various advocacy groups about potential negative impacts on patient care, particularly in critical situations. Critics argue that the legislation may lead to instances where patients could be denied care or face delays in treatment, especially in cases where a health care provider's conscience clashes with medical necessity. Proponents counter that the bill is necessary to uphold individual freedoms and protect health care providers from discrimination based on their beliefs, framing the discussion as a balance between conscientious objection and patient rights.