Texas Senate Bill SB660

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 12/19/24
• Out of Senate Committee: 3/31/25
• Voted on by Senate: 4/9/25

Caption

Relating to the installation of bollards or another safety barrier adjacent to certain hospital emergency rooms.

Impact

If enacted, SB660 will amend the Health and Safety Code, requiring hospitals that do not already have such barriers to install them by January 1, 2026. Importantly, hospitals that have previously installed crash-rated barriers will not be mandated to conduct additional installations. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission will oversee the rule-making process to implement these requirements, implying that hospitals will need to prepare for compliance within the stipulated timeline.

Summary

SB660 aims to enhance safety measures for hospital emergency rooms in Texas by mandating the installation of crash-rated bollards or similar safety barriers near those facilities. The bill specifies that it applies to hospitals with emergency rooms situated in areas that are likely to experience vehicular traffic, thereby addressing concerns relating to vehicle-related incidents that could jeopardize patients and healthcare providers. The intent of the legislation is to create safer environments for emergency care by physically preventing potential crashes into these critical healthcare spaces.

Sentiment

The discussions surrounding SB660 generally reflect a supportive sentiment towards increasing safety in healthcare settings. Advocates of the bill view it as a proactive measure to protect vulnerable populations, including patients arriving for urgent care. However, some skepticism exists about the financial implications for hospitals, particularly smaller or rural institutions that may face challenges in funding these adjustments.

Contention

Notable points of contention amongst legislators include the feasibility of compliance for smaller hospitals and whether the measure adequately addresses all safety concerns. Critics may raise questions about the potential financial burden on healthcare facilities, particularly those designated as critical access hospitals. The debate also touches on balancing healthcare infrastructure improvements with the realities of hospital funding and resource allocation.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Health And Safety Code

• Chapter 311. Powers And Duties Of Hospitals
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