H.B. No. 2586 introduces new regulations for pregnancy resource centers in Texas by adding Chapter 174 to the Health and Safety Code. The bill defines a "pregnancy resource center" as an organization that provides pregnancy counseling or information without performing abortions or offering comprehensive birth control services, and it specifies that these centers are not required to be licensed or certified to provide medical services. The executive commissioner is tasked with establishing minimum standards for these centers, which must ensure patient health and safety, align with existing requirements for pregnancy services, and meet standards similar to those for ambulatory surgical centers. Additionally, at least one licensed obstetrician or gynecologist must be present when services are provided.

The bill also outlines that any pregnancy resource center or healthcare practitioner that fails to comply with these standards may face disciplinary action from the relevant state agency. The executive commissioner is required to adopt the necessary rules to implement these provisions by January 1, 2026, and the act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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