Texas House Bill HB94

Texas 2021 - 87th 3rd C.S.

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a COVID-19 health information clearinghouse.

Impact

The implementation of a COVID-19 health information clearinghouse will have significant implications for state public health policy. By providing a centralized source of data, it aims to facilitate informed decision-making and public awareness regarding the pandemic. The bill addresses the need for accurate and up-to-date information that can help guide responses to COVID-19, enabling both health professionals and the general public to better understand the situation and trends within Texas.

Summary

House Bill 94 establishes a COVID-19 health information clearinghouse in Texas. This clearinghouse will serve as a central repository for critical health data related to COVID-19 and will be administered by the Department of State Health Services in collaboration with other health organizations. The bill mandates that the clearinghouse include various statistics, such as the total number of vaccinated individuals, hospitalization rates, and COVID-19 related deaths, breaking down the data by demographics. This initiative aims to provide transparency and enhance the public's access to vital COVID-19 statistics.

Contention

Nevertheless, the establishment of this clearinghouse may raise concerns regarding data privacy and the handling of sensitive information. The bill ensures that any information collected does not disclose personally identifiable details, aiming to protect individuals while still promoting transparency. This aspect of the bill seeks to balance public health needs with personal privacy rights, which is often a contentious issue in health-related legislation.