82R14188 SLB-D
 
  By: Aycock H.B. No. 413
 
  Substitute the following for H.B. No. 413:
 
  By:  Howard of Fort Bend C.S.H.B. No. 413
 
 
 
A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
 
AN ACT
  relating to the confidentiality of certain information held by a
  veterinarian.
         BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS:
         SECTION 1.  Section 801.353, Occupations Code, is amended by
  adding Subsections (d-1) and (g) and amending Subsection (f) to
  read as follows:
         (d-1)  The privilege provided by this section is waived by
  the client or the owner of the animal treated by the veterinarian in
  a proceeding to substantiate and collect on a debt incurred for
  veterinary services.
         (f)  A veterinarian does not violate this section by
  providing the name or address of a client, or the rabies vaccination
  status of a specific client's specific animal, to a public health
  authority, veterinarian, or physician who requests the identity of
  the client to obtain information for:
               (1)  the verification of a rabies vaccination; [or]
               (2)  other treatment involving a life-threatening
  situation; or
               (3)  a public health purpose.
         (g)  A public health authority that receives information
  under Subsection (f) shall maintain the confidentiality of the
  information, may not disclose the information under Chapter 552,
  Government Code, and may not use the information for a purpose that
  does not directly relate to the protection of public health and
  safety.
         SECTION 2.  This Act takes effect September 1, 2011.