On May 21, 2025, the Texas Senate Committee on Health and Human Services convened to discuss House Bill 5,147, a significant piece of legislation aimed at expanding access to investigational adult stem cell treatments for patients with serious or chronic health conditions. This bill builds upon the framework established by Charlie's Law, passed in 2017, which initially allowed for such treatments in Texas.

The primary focus of HB 5,147 is to reduce barriers that currently limit where these treatments can be administered. The bill proposes to allow stem cell therapies to be offered in outpatient facilities equipped with level 2 anesthesia services, thereby providing patients with more local and flexible options for treatment. To ensure patient safety, the legislation mandates that all stem cells used must comply with FDA good manufacturing practices and strengthens oversight by permitting more institutional review boards to oversee treatments.

Key provisions of the bill include enhanced transparency requirements, such as informed consent forms that clearly state the treatments are not FDA approved, and a requirement for review boards to report any serious side effects to the Texas Medical Board. Proponents argue that these measures will expand access to promising therapies while maintaining necessary safeguards for patients.

During the meeting, several witnesses, including medical professionals and patients, expressed their support for the bill. Dr. Tejas Ozarker, a physician specializing in regenerative medicine, emphasized the importance of additional oversight from the Texas Medical Board to ensure that outpatient facilities meet safety standards. Patient testimonies highlighted the life-changing benefits of stem cell treatments, with individuals sharing their experiences of traveling abroad for therapies that improved their quality of life.

Concerns were raised regarding liability protections for facilities offering these treatments, particularly in outpatient settings. Some committee members suggested that further discussions are needed to address these liability issues before moving forward.

The committee's discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by patients seeking access to innovative treatments and the legislative body's commitment to addressing these needs. As Texas continues to navigate the complexities of healthcare regulations, the outcome of HB 5,147 could significantly impact the availability of stem cell therapies for many Texans in need. The committee plans to continue deliberations on the bill, with potential amendments to enhance its provisions before a final vote.