Texas State Rep. Venton Jones, D-Dallas, announced Monday, March 31, that House Bill 50 — legislation he introduced that proposes “a crucial step forward in combating the HIV epidemic in Texas” by ensuring that HIV testing is offered to individuals undergoing screening for sexually transmitted Diseases — has been heard by the Texas House Committee on Public Health.
Watch video of the Public Health Committee hearing on HB 50
“I am pleased that the Public Health Committee today gave a hearing to House Bill 50,” said Jones, who is Texas first openly-HIV-positive lawmaker. “For too long, HIV testing has not been a standard part of routine STD screenings in our state. This simple change will empower individuals to know their status, access life-saving care earlier, and ultimately reduce the transmission of HIV in Texas.”
Jones, who according to a press releases from his office has dedicated more than two decades of his career to addressing the HIV epidemic, emphasized the urgency of this legislation, adding that “Texas currently ranks number one in the nation for new HIV diagnoses. Many Texans are unaware they are living with HIV, leading to delayed treatment and unintentional transmission.
“By making HIV testing a routine offering during STD screenings, we can identify cases earlier, link individuals to care and move closer to ending the HIV epidemic in our state,” he said.
Jones’ press release noted that the hearing allowed committee members to discuss the bill and hear testimony from experts and stakeholders, and he expressed thanks for the bipartisan support the measure is receiving.
“This bill has the unanimous support of the medical community and, importantly, has no fiscal note for the state,” Jones said. “It is a common-sense measure that will have a significant positive impact on the health and well-being of Texans.”
The next step is for HB 50 to be considered for a vote by the Public Health Committee on Public Health, and Jones urged the public to contact their representatives to voice support for the bill
Jones is serving his second term in the Texas House, representing House District 100, where he was born and raised. District 100 is located in the heart of Dallas County and includes South Dallas, West Dallas, East Dallas, Victory Park and Oak Cliff.
— Tammye Nash