The bill, S.B. No. 1159, introduces Chapter 171A to the Health and Safety Code, which establishes strict prohibitions on the reporting or disclosure of certain health information by physicians and other health care providers. Specifically, it prohibits these professionals from reporting or disclosing information regarding patients who have experienced a miscarriage or obtained an abortion, or who are suspected of having done so, to law enforcement agencies. This provision aims to protect patient confidentiality and ensure that individuals seeking reproductive health care can do so without fear of legal repercussions.

Additionally, the bill outlines enforcement mechanisms for violations of this prohibition. Any unauthorized report or disclosure by a physician or health care provider will be considered a violation of Chapter 181, subjecting the violator to disciplinary actions by the appropriate licensing authority. The executive commissioner is also granted the authority to adopt rules for the implementation of this chapter. The provisions of this bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to reports or disclosures made after that date.

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