81R10207 SMH-D

By: Watson S.B. No. 1757

A BILL TO BE ENTITLED

AN ACT

relating to a study by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality of the methods for safely handling and disposing of certain medical waste.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:

SECTION 1. (a) The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality shall study:

(1) the methods currently used in this state to safely handle and dispose of pharmaceuticals, medical sharps, and other potentially dangerous medical waste;

(2) alternative methods used for that purpose, including the methods used in other states; and

(3) the effects on public health and the environment of the various methods used for that purpose.

(b) In conducting the study, the commission shall solicit input from:

(1) pharmaceutical manufacturers;

(2) large pharmacies and small, independent pharmacies;

(3) health care providers, including home health care providers;

(4) hospitals;

(5) clinics;

(6) long-term care facilities;

(7) entities that engage in medical waste processing and handling;

(8) solid waste management service providers;

(9) local governments;

(10) large and small ranchers and farmers;

(11) end users of medication;

(12) water utilities and other water suppliers;

(13) the United States Postal Service;

(14) the United States Environmental Protection Agency; and

(15) any other entity the agency considers necessary.

(c) Not later than December 1, 2010, the commission shall submit a report of the results of the study to the legislature. The report must include the commission's recommendations regarding the method for safely handling and disposing of pharmaceuticals, medical sharps, and other potentially dangerous medical waste.

SECTION 2. This Act takes effect immediately if it receives a vote of two-thirds of all the members elected to each house, as provided by Section 39, Article III, Texas Constitution. If this Act does not receive the vote necessary for immediate effect, this Act takes effect September 1, 2009.