BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

Senate Research Center

H.B. 114

82R22369 EAH-F

By: McClendon et al. (Zaffirini)

 

Administration

 

5/9/2011

 

Engrossed

 

 

 

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

 

H.B. 114 would elevate cancer awareness among the general public and minority populations by designating April as Minority Cancer Awareness Month.  According to the American Cancer Society, minority populations endure the highest cancer death rate and shortest survival time throughout the country.

 

However, the causes of these elevated statistics among minorities are complex.  Rather than differences being biologically associated with race, they tend to be closely linked with social and economic disparities.  These factors create a sense of urgency in regard to prevention and cure.  Common awareness will serve as an essential way to prevent cancer fatalities by concentrating on the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.

 

This bill is designed to encourage private funding of general education for the public, and to promote earlier, more effective diagnosis and treatment of cancer.  Minority Cancer Awareness Month would be regularly observed by appropriate activities in public locations to increase recognition for minority cancer education, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.  This awareness will also be promoted by explaining specific evidence-based effects, frequencies, and the impact of cancer on minority populations.

 

H.B. 114 amends current law relating to designating April as Minority Cancer Awareness Month.

 

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.  Amends Subchapter D, Chapter 662, Government Code, by adding Section 662.108, as follows:

 

Sec. 662.108.  MINORITY CANCER AWARENESS MONTH.  (a) Provides that April is Minority Cancer Awareness Month to increase awareness of cancer in minority populations and encourage funding of education and earlier and more effective diagnosis and treatment of cancer.

 

(b)  Requires that Minority Cancer Awareness Month be regularly observed by appropriate activities in public locations to increase cancer awareness, including the specific effects, incidences, and impact of cancer on minority populations, and encourage support for minority cancer education, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

 

SECTION 2.  Effective date: September 1, 2011.