The bill, H.B. No. 2872, introduces new regulations regarding the release and disclosure of vaccination and immunization information in Texas. It adds Section 161.0093 to the Health and Safety Code, which prohibits employees or agents of the department or health authorities from disclosing an individual's vaccination information without written or electronic consent from the individual or their legally authorized representative. Exceptions to this rule include disclosures to healthcare providers in compliance with privacy laws or other authorized circumstances. Additionally, the bill establishes civil penalties for unauthorized disclosures, ranging from $2,000 to $50,000 per violation, enforceable by the attorney general.

The bill also amends several existing sections of the Health and Safety Code to enhance the confidentiality of immunization records and clarify the conditions under which such information may be shared. Notably, it removes previous provisions that allowed for broader disclosures without consent and emphasizes the need for consent before including individuals in the immunization registry. The changes aim to strengthen the protection of personal health information while still allowing necessary access for public health purposes. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 161.007, Health and Safety Code 161.00705, Health and Safety Code 161.00706, Health and Safety Code 161.0071, Health and Safety Code 161.0073, Health and Safety Code 161.00735, Health and Safety Code 161.0075, Health and Safety Code 161.008 (Health and Safety Code 161)