The bill amends the Health and Safety Code to enhance individual rights regarding medical treatment and control measures, particularly in the context of isolation and quarantine. It introduces a new heading for Section 81.009, emphasizing the "Right to Choose Medical Treatments and Control Measures." The bill clarifies that individuals, including parents or guardians of minors, have the right to choose their medical treatments and alternative control measures, except when isolation or quarantine is mandated. Additionally, it removes the previous requirement that treatment by prayer or spiritual means must be part of a recognized church's tenets.

Furthermore, the bill establishes new requirements for implementing isolation or quarantine measures, mandating that health authorities provide notice and an opportunity for individuals to contest the necessity of such measures. It limits the duration of isolation or quarantine to five days unless extended by a court order. The bill also emphasizes the use of the least restrictive means for isolation and allows individuals to quarantine at home or with family. Overall, the legislation aims to balance public health needs with individual rights in the context of communicable diseases.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 81.009, Health and Safety Code 81.083, Health and Safety Code 81.085 (Health and Safety Code 81)