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A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
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AN ACT
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relating to the confidentiality of certain information held by a |
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veterinarian. |
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BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF TEXAS: |
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SECTION 1. Section 801.353, Occupations Code, is amended by |
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adding Subsections (d-1) and (g) and amending Subsection (f) to |
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read as follows: |
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(d-1) The privilege provided by this section is waived by |
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the client or the owner of the animal treated by the veterinarian in |
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a proceeding to substantiate and collect on a debt incurred for |
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veterinary services. |
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(f) A veterinarian does not violate this section by |
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providing the name or address of a client, or the rabies vaccination |
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status of a client's animal, to a public health authority, |
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veterinarian, or physician who requests the identity of the client |
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to obtain information for: |
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(1) the verification of a rabies vaccination; [or] |
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(2) other treatment involving a life-threatening |
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situation; or |
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(3) a public health purpose. |
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(g) A public health authority that receives information |
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under Subsection (f) shall maintain the confidentiality of the |
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information, may not disclose the information under Chapter 552, |
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Government Code, and may not use the information for a purpose that |
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does not directly relate to the protection of public health and |
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safety. |
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SECTION 2. This Act takes effect September 1, 2011. |