Bill > SB2916

This bill modifies Texas health regulations regarding screening tests for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), introducing an opt-out approach for blood sample testing. The bill defines a "screening test" as a rapid analytical procedure to determine the need for further diagnostic evaluation of an infection. Under the new provisions, when a healthcare provider collects a blood sample during a medical screening for an STD, they must obtain the patient's consent and inform them that a screening test will be performed unless the patient specifically opts out. If a patient receives a positive screening test result, the healthcare provider must provide information about available healthcare, education, prevention, and social support services. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission is required to adopt rules for implementing this approach, considering the most recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for adult and adolescent testing. The bill sets January 1, 2026, as the compliance date for healthcare providers, giving the commission time to develop and implement the necessary regulations. Additionally, the bill includes a provision that the commission is not required to implement the mandatory provisions unless specific funding is appropriated, with a final implementation deadline of September 1, 2029.