Bill > SB350

This bill establishes a legal requirement that physicians and healthcare practitioners must prioritize the health of a pregnant individual over the health of the fetus when recommending medical treatments, even if the treatment could potentially harm the fetus. The bill specifies that while healthcare providers must prioritize the pregnant person's health, the individual retains the right to agree to or refuse any recommended treatment. Additionally, providers can only administer treatments after obtaining the patient's informed consent. The bill allows licensing authorities to impose administrative penalties on physicians or healthcare practitioners who do not comply with these requirements, using the same procedures they would use for other violations of licensing or regulatory rules. The legislation would take effect immediately if it receives a two-thirds vote in the Texas legislature, or otherwise on September 1, 2025. This bill appears to be aimed at ensuring that pregnant individuals have the primary say in their medical care and that their health is considered paramount in treatment decisions.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB350