BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

Senate Research Center	H.B. 1966
87R3072 MWC-D	By: Thompson, Senfronia (Powell)
	Administration
	5/17/2021
	Engrossed

 

 

 

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

 

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous tumors of the uterus that most often form during childbearing years. According to the United States Office on Women's Health, about 80 percent of women may develop fibroids by the time they turn 50. While fibroids are common among women, many do not know the signs or effects of them. Black women develop uterine fibroids earlier, have larger and a greater number of fibroids, and are three times more likely than white women to be hospitalized from related complications. Considering the prevalence, and the disproportional impact this can have on Texas women, more awareness is needed.

 

H.B. 1966 seeks to build awareness around uterine fibroids and encourage education and research on uterine fibroids by designating July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month.

 

H.B. 1966 amends current law relating to the designation of July as Uterine Fibroids 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 662.114, as follows:

 

Sec. 662.114. UTERINE FIBROIDS AWARENESS MONTH. (a) Provides that July is Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month to increase awareness of uterine fibroids and to:

 

(1) encourage education and research on uterine fibroids;

 

(2) improve methods for identifying signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids;

 

(3) improve methods for preventing, diagnosing, and treating uterine fibroids; and

 

(4) encourage the establishment of a public education campaign that includes health seminars, medical information panels, community programs, and funding opportunities.

 

(b) Requires that Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month be regularly observed through appropriate programs and activities to increase awareness of uterine fibroids.

 

SECTION 2. Effective date: September 1, 2021.