Texas Senate Bill SB903

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 1/24/25

Caption

Relating to continuing education requirements for certain physicians regarding adoption.

Impact

With the implementation of SB903, it is expected that physicians will have a enhanced understanding of adoption-related legal matters, which could potentially lead to better support for expectant mothers contemplating adoption. The prescribed training will cover various essential aspects of the adoption process, including financial assistance available to mothers, the differences between private adoptions and foster care, and the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved.

Summary

SB903 aims to amend the Occupations Code by introducing new continuing education requirements for physicians who provide care to pregnant women. Specifically, the bill requires these physicians to complete at least one hour of education in Texas adoption law as part of their license renewal process. This educational content is designed to familiarize healthcare providers with key procedures related to adoption, including the termination of parental rights and the processes for leaving newborns with designated agencies.

Contention

Notable areas of contention may arise regarding the appropriateness of mandating such education for all physicians treating pregnant patients. Critics might argue that this requirement could impose additional burdens on physicians and may not be relevant for every aspect of maternal care. Additionally, there could be debates regarding the extent of the curriculum to be mandated and its implications on existing continuing education requirements.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Occupations Code

• Chapter 156. Registration Of Physicians
  • Section: New Section

Family Code

• Chapter 161. Termination Of The Parent-child Relationship
  • Section: New Section
  • Section: 2061

• Chapter 262. Procedures In Suit By Governmental Entity To Protect Health And Safety Of Child
  • Section: 302

Penal Code

• Chapter 25. Offenses Against The Family
  • Section: New Section