Bill > HB47

This bill enhances legal protections and support services for sexual assault survivors in Texas by making several key modifications across multiple areas of law. The bill expands medical care coverage by requiring health care facilities to provide sexual assault survivors with up to 30 days of continuing medical care following a forensic medical examination, including medication and medical testing, at no cost to the survivor. It updates various legal documents and notification forms to include additional resources like legal aid service contact information and requires health care facilities to provide sexual assault response training to employees and contractors. The legislation also increases professional training requirements for physicians and physician assistants working in emergency settings, mandating two hours of continuing education on trauma-informed care, forensic evidence collection, and sexual assault survivors' rights. Additionally, the bill modifies regulations for transportation network companies by requiring background checks that include state sex offender registries and extends restrictions on employment for registered sex offenders to include digitally prearranged ride services. The bill aims to improve support, medical care, and legal protections for sexual assault survivors while enhancing professional standards and accountability in responding to sexual assault cases.