New Times, Inc. v. Doe

In this accelerated interlocutory appeal, we decide whether appellants may be held liable for damages under the Texas Communicable Disease Prevention and Control Act for reporting that an individual is HIV-positive. Chapter 81, Tex. Health & Safety Code Ann. (Vernon 2001 & Supp. 2005). While the confidentiality provisions of the Act serve an important public interest, we conclude they do not extend to the circumstances presented here and, therefore, the trial judge erred in denying appellants motion for summary judgment. We reverse the trial courts judgment and render judgment that appellee take nothing.