BILL ANALYSIS

Senate Research Center                                                                                                        S.B. 140

80R1250 JRJ-D                                                                                                                By: Nelson

Health and Human Services

2/1/2007

As Filed

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

Students enrolled in health professional degree programs are currently required to show proof of specific vaccinations before interacting with patients.  However, some of those students may not be able to cover the costs of those immunizations in addition to other costs related to their degree program.  As proposed, S.B. 140 authorizes a study to determine the feasibility of providing the immunizations at low cost or no cost to those students who are unable to afford the required vaccines. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency.

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Requires the Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) to conduct a joint study regarding the feasibility of providing free or discounted immunizations to economically-disadvantaged students enrolled in health professional degree programs at institutions of higher education in Texas.  Requires the study to examine potential methods of providing those immunizations. Requires DSHS and THECB to submit a joint report including findings of and recommendations to the Legislature no later than January 15, 2009.  Provides that this section expires on September 1, 2009. 

SECTION 2.  Effective date: upon passage or September 1, 2007.