The bill, H.B. No. 220, aims to enhance the minimum standards of care provided to sexual assault survivors by health care facilities in Texas. It amends Section 323.004(b) of the Health and Safety Code to include additional provisions that facilities must offer to survivors. Specifically, the bill mandates that survivors have access to a shower at no cost after their forensic medical examination if the facility has shower facilities. Furthermore, it introduces a requirement for health care facilities to provide emergency contraceptives, approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration, to survivors if they consent and the treatment is clinically indicated.

In addition to these new provisions, the bill retains existing requirements for health care facilities, such as providing a forensic medical examination, a private area for discussions with medical or legal staff, access to a sexual assault program advocate, and information about local crisis centers. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, ensuring that health care facilities are better equipped to support sexual assault survivors through comprehensive care and resources.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 323.004 (Health and Safety Code 323)