S.B. No. 619, titled the Texas Health Care Conscience Protection Act, aims to protect health care providers from being compelled to participate in health care services that conflict with their personal beliefs or conscience. The bill establishes that health care providers have the right to decline participation in such services, with specific exceptions for emergency care and life-sustaining treatment. It also outlines definitions related to conscience, health care services, and the roles of health care providers and facilities. The legislation mandates that health care facilities develop written protocols to ensure that patients can still access necessary services when a provider declines participation for reasons of conscience.

Additionally, the bill provides civil remedies for individuals harmed by violations of these protections, allowing them to seek injunctive relief and damages, including emotional and physical injuries. It also stipulates that health care providers cannot face civil or criminal liability for exercising their right to decline participation based on conscience. Disciplinary actions can be taken against health care facilities or providers that violate these provisions, and individuals can file complaints with the relevant licensing agencies. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and requires health care facilities to have their protocols in place by December 1, 2025.

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