Physicians could refuse to treat patients under proposed Texas laws
Eli Kirshbaum | Apr 15, 2021
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Two new bills heard this week by the Texas House Public Health Committee would expand health professionals’ capacity to opt out of medical procedures that conflict with their beliefs. Both bills are still pending in committee.
House Bill 1291 is sponsored by Rep. Keith Bell and would give health professionals written notice of their right to object to performing an abortion. According to Bell, this bill addresses the potential discrimination faced by providers who refuse to perform abortions. While current Texas law protects providers against such discrimination, Bell believes they need explicit written notice of their right to do so.