Bill > HB3472

This bill establishes comprehensive informed consent requirements for health care services in Texas, ensuring that individuals have the right to provide or withhold consent for medical treatments without coercion. The bill defines health care services broadly, including vaccine administration, and prohibits health care practitioners or other persons from compelling individuals to obtain any health care service against their preference. It requires explicit informed consent from patients or their legal representatives before providing any health care service, with specific provisions for consent by guardians, parents, and medical power of attorney agents. The legislation protects individuals from adverse actions or penalties for refusing health care services, including immunizations, and provides exemptions for those with sincerely held religious beliefs or medical contraindications. Health care practitioners who violate these provisions can be held civilly liable for damages of at least $5,000 and may face potential injunctions from the attorney general. The bill emphasizes individual autonomy in medical decision-making, drawing on legal precedents like the Canterbury v. Spence case and American Medical Association ethics guidelines, and applies to all health care services provided on or after its effective date.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3472