Bill Caption

Relating to the designation of July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month. 

Fiscal Notes

No fiscal implication to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

HB 1966 would designate July as Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month to increase awareness of uterine fibroids and to:

• encourage education and research on uterine fibroids;
• improve methods for identifying signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids;
• improve methods for preventing, diagnosing, and treating uterine fibroids; and
• encourage the establishment of a public education campaign that includes health seminars, medical information panels, community programs, and funding opportunities. 

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action generally does not take a position on designating dates for awareness purposes. However, we are skeptical of mandating that "Uterine Fibroids Awareness Month shall be regularly observed through appropriate programs and activities to increase awareness of uterine fibroids." Adding this mandate is beyond the scope of the proper role of the state and, while the bill does not designate funding to fulfill the mandate it is likely that future legislation will do so. For these reasons we oppose HB 1966 unless amended to strike this portion of the bill.