Texas House Bill HB2991

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 2/18/25

Caption

Relating to the donation of blood by persons younger than 18 years of age; authorizing a civil penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB2991 will amend the Health and Safety Code to include provisions that restrict the donation frequency and conditions for minors. Notably, individuals under 18 will be limited to one donation within 24 hours and a maximum of two donations within a calendar year. It also prohibits minors from receiving any compensation for their donations and mandates that the blood donated by them cannot be sold for profit or exported out of the country. This move is intended to sustain the integrity of blood donation practices and protect the wellbeing of minor donors.

Summary

House Bill 2991 seeks to regulate blood donation by individuals under 18 years of age in Texas. The bill specifically permits 17-year-olds to donate blood provided they have written consent from a parent or legal guardian. This consent must include information on the risks and health effects associated with blood donation for minors. The bill aims to establish guidelines to ensure that young donors are adequately informed and safeguarded during the donation process, thereby aligning state laws with current practices surrounding blood donation and minor consent.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB2991 appears to be generally supportive among health advocates and lawmakers who emphasize the importance of safeguarding minor donors while promoting blood donation efforts. However, some concerns have been expressed regarding the feasibility and implications of requiring parental consent for blood donation, particularly about its potential impact on donation rates from this age group. Overall, the bill seems to resonate positively with those prioritizing health and safety in blood donation processes.

Contention

Contention surrounding HB2991 primarily revolves around the parental consent requirement and its potential influence on the willingness of 17-year-olds to donate blood. Opponents of such measures argue that it may inadvertently discourage donations due to the burden of seeking consent, especially in emergency situations where timely donations are critical. Nevertheless, supporters argue that implementing these consent requirements is crucial for ensuring that minors are fully informed about the risks involved in blood donation, emphasizing the bill’s focus on protection over limitation.