Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas Senate Bill SB206

Filed

11/12/24

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to a webpage and mobile application for the provision of pregnancy-related resources and information.

Impact

The implementation of SB206 seeks to reduce barriers faced by pregnant individuals in accessing essential resources. By consolidating and centralizing information on a single platform, the bill is expected to enhance the availability of crucial services across Texas. The initiative may also promote informed decision-making regarding pregnancy by equipping expectant mothers with necessary support and protecting their rights through legal resources. This legislation aligns with state goals to improve maternal health outcomes and offers systematic assistance to those navigating pregnancy-related challenges.

Summary

SB206 aims to create a centralized webpage and mobile application for providing comprehensive pregnancy-related resources and information in Texas. The bill mandates the Texas Health Commission, in collaboration with the Department of Information Resources, to develop and maintain a user-friendly platform that offers resources such as mental health counseling, prenatal services, financial assistance, and legal services. It also addresses alternatives to abortion, associated risks, and child development information, targeting the needs of pregnant women in the state while ensuring accessibility through a search tool by zip code and county.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding SB206 include the debates on the inclusion of abortion-related information and the effectiveness of the proposed resources. Opponents argue that while the intentions behind the bill are commendable, there is concern that the focus on alternatives to abortion might undermine the complexities of individual decisions faced by women. Furthermore, the lack of mandatory provisions for mental health support and the nuances surrounding the accessibility and confidentiality of services could also arise as contentious issues as the bill moves forward. Supporters argue that the bill will fill significant gaps in service provision and improve overall pregnancy outcomes for women across Texas.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

Chapter 161. Public Health Provisions
- Section: New Section

Companion Bills

TX HB2263

Identical Relating to a webpage and mobile application for the provision of pregnancy-related resources and information.

Previously Filed As

TX SB2381

Relating to the development of a webpage and mobile application for the provision of pregnancy-related resources and information.

TX HB4476

Relating to the provision of certain information about Medicaid benefits in relation to newborn children.

TX SB1458

Relating to the provision of certain information about Medicaid benefits in relation to newborn children.

TX HB2538

Relating to the repeal of provisions related to notice and consent to an abortion on a minor.

TX HB1478

Relating to minimum standards for pregnancy resource centers.

TX HB3588

Relating to an exemption from abortion restrictions for unemancipated minors and the repeal of provisions regarding notice and consent to those abortions.

TX HB3725

Relating to Medicaid coverage and reimbursement for doula services and reports on the provision of those services.

TX HB3394

Relating to Medicaid coverage and reimbursement for doula services and reports on the provision of those services.

TX HB4715

Relating to the establishment of paternity and the duty to pay child support and to victim restitution or compensation for certain sexual offenses resulting in pregnancy.

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.