BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1966

By: Thompson, Senfronia

Public Health

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Uterine fibroids are a common health problem for women, many of whom experience symptoms such as significant pelvic pain, increased urinary frequency, anemia, miscarriages, infertility, and heavy bleeding. While this issue affects women across all racial backgrounds, more than 80 percent of Black women and about 70 percent of white women develop fibroids by the time they reach menopause. Black women develop uterine fibroids earlier, have larger and a greater number of fibroids, and are three times more likely than white women to be hospitalized from related complications. Despite this, many women lack awareness about uterine fibroids and fail to prioritize the importance of this health issue. H.B. 1966 seeks to build awareness around uterine fibroids and encourage education and research on uterine fibroids by designating July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 1966 amends the Government Code to designate July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month to increase awareness of uterine fibroids and to accomplish the following related purposes:

· encourage education and research;

· improve methods for identifying signs and symptoms;

· improve methods for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment; and

· encourage the establishment of a public education campaign that includes health seminars, medical information panels, community programs, and funding opportunities.

The bill requires Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month to be regularly observed through appropriate programs and activities to increase awareness of uterine fibroids.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2021.