The bill, titled S.B. No. 984, aims to enhance access to individualized investigational treatments for patients suffering from life-threatening or severely debilitating illnesses. It introduces Chapter 491 to the Health and Safety Code, which defines key terms such as "individualized investigational treatment," "life-threatening illness," and "severely debilitating illness." The bill outlines eligibility criteria for both healthcare facilities and patients, stipulating that patients must have considered all other FDA-approved treatment options and provided written informed consent. Additionally, it mandates that healthcare facilities must operate under federal assurances for the protection of human subjects.

The legislation also addresses the financial aspects of accessing these treatments, clarifying that manufacturers are not obligated to provide treatments and that patients may be responsible for associated costs. Importantly, it protects patients' heirs from liability for debts related to treatments if the patient dies while receiving care. Furthermore, the bill prohibits state interference in patients' access to these investigational treatments and ensures that healthcare providers cannot face punitive actions solely for recommending such treatments. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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