S.B. 40 78(R)    BILL ANALYSIS


S.B. 40
By: Zaffirini
Public Health
Committee Report (Unamended)



BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE 

In 1994, the Texas Department of Health (TDH) initiated the "Shots Across
Texas" campaign to fully immunize children, ages birth to two-years-old.
Local coalitions in all of Texas' 254 counties participated in statewide
"Shots Across Texas" media campaigns.  Through 1996, Texas saw an increase
in immunizations rates and a decrease in disease outbreaks.  The formal
campaign ended in 1996.  Components of the campaign have since been
absorbed into the general work of the TDH immunization division and
funding for local immunizations coalitions has decreased since 1996. As
proposed, S.B. 40 would direct TDH to institute a continuous statewide
immunization education campaign and increase coordination between local,
regional, and state stakeholders on immunizations through a statewide
coalition.   

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

Requires the Texas Department of Health (TDH) to establish a continuous
statewide education program to educate the public about the importance of
fully immunizing children.  The proposed bill also requires TDH to
increase coordination among public and private local, regional, and
statewide entities that have an interest in immunizations. 

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2003