The bill, S.B. No. 1685, introduces a new chapter, Chapter 174, to the Health and Safety Code, establishing minimum standards for pregnancy resource centers in Texas. It defines a "pregnancy resource center" as an organization that provides pregnancy counseling or information without performing abortions or making referrals to abortion providers, and that is not licensed to provide medical services. The bill mandates that the executive commissioner of the Health and Human Services Commission create rules to ensure these centers meet specific minimum standards that protect patient health and safety, including provisions equivalent to those required for ambulatory surgical centers.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that pregnancy resource centers must have at least one licensed obstetrician or gynecologist present when providing services. It clarifies that the executive commissioner cannot set qualifications for health care practitioners or allow unqualified individuals to provide medical services. Violations of these standards may result in disciplinary action by the relevant state agency. The rules to implement these standards must be adopted by January 1, 2026, and the act will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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