Bill > SB121

This bill modifies Texas health laws to enhance individual medical treatment choice and add procedural safeguards for isolation or quarantine control measures. The legislation provides that individuals (or parents/guardians of minors) retain the right to choose medical treatments and alternative control measures during public health situations, with some limitations for isolation and quarantine scenarios. Specifically, before ordering isolation or quarantine, health authorities must now provide notice to individuals and an opportunity to demonstrate such measures are unnecessary. The bill limits isolation or quarantine periods to five days without obtaining a court order, and requires health authorities to use the least restrictive means possible when implementing control measures. Key provisions include allowing individuals to isolate with family members or friends, ensuring minimal disruption to personal circumstances, and maintaining the right to choose medical treatments. The bill also removes previous language that restricted treatment choices based on religious tenets and provides more flexible guidelines for implementing public health control measures. If passed with a two-thirds majority, the bill would take effect immediately; otherwise, it will become effective on September 1, 2025.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB121