HBA-MPM H.B. 391 77(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


Office of House Bill AnalysisH.B. 391
By: Maxey
Public Health
6/14/2001
Enrolled



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), epidemiologic
research indicates that human milk and breastfeeding of infants, including
those who are premature or sick, improves the infant's general health,
growth, and development, while significantly reducing risk for a large
number of acute and chronic diseases.  In some instances, a mother may not
be able to breastfeed her child, such as when the mother has used illegal
drugs or is taking certain prescription medications, or if the mother has
been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or another
disease.  Donor milk banks provide human milk when direct breastfeeding is
not possible. To ensure careful handling at each stage of processing and
distribution, a rigid protocol is needed.  House Bill 391 requires the
Texas Department of Health to establish minimum standards for the
procurement, processing, distribution, or use of human milk by donor milk
banks. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the opinion of the Office of House Bill Analysis that this bill does
not expressly delegate any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, department, agency, or institution. 

ANALYSIS

House Bill 391 amends the Health and Safety Code to require the Texas
Department of Health to establish minimum guidelines for the procurement,
processing, distribution, or use of human milk by donor milk banks. 

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2001.