Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB1300

Caption

Relating to cultivated oyster mariculture; authorizing fees; requiring a permit; creating a criminal offense.

Impact

The implementation of HB 1300 would necessitate significant changes in state laws governing health insurance. It would require insurance providers to adhere to stricter guidelines regarding the pricing and availability of coverage. This could lead to an increase in insurance premiums initially as companies adjust to the new regulations. However, proponents argue that in the long term, the bill could help stabilize the insurance market by enhancing competition and reducing out-of-pocket costs for consumers. Additionally, the bill is expected to improve health outcomes by enabling more individuals to seek preventive care without financial strain.

Summary

House Bill 1300 aims to enhance consumer protections in the health insurance market, ensuring that all individuals have access to affordable healthcare coverage. The bill focuses on regulating insurance companies to prevent discriminatory practices and mandating minimum standards of coverage for essential health benefits. By reinforcing these regulations, the bill intends to expand healthcare access, especially for vulnerable populations including low-income families and individuals with pre-existing conditions.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 1300 is largely positive among health advocacy groups and consumer rights organizations, who view it as a pivotal step towards making healthcare more equitable and accessible. Supporters emphasize the bill’s potential to protect consumers from exploitative practices by insurers and to promote health as a fundamental right. Conversely, there are concerns from some insurance companies and free-market advocates who argue that increased regulation could hinder competition and lead to higher costs for consumers overall.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding HB 1300 include debates over regulatory authority and the balance between consumer protections and market freedom. Opponents raise concerns about the potential for unintended consequences, such as insurance providers exiting the market due to overly burdensome regulations. Additionally, discussions around funding for the expanded coverage provisions have led to disagreements over budget allocations and resource management within the state's healthcare system. The bill’s implications for small businesses and their ability to provide health insurance to employees are also elements of the debate.

Companion Bills

TX SB682

Same As Relating to cultivated oyster mariculture; authorizing fees; creating a criminal offense.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2755

Relating to the minimum instruction requirement for the boater education program and the disposition and use of money received by the Parks and Wildlife Department from the boater education program.

TX SB1006

Relating to the minimum instruction requirement for the boater education program and the disposition and use of money received by the Parks and Wildlife Department from the boater education program.

TX HB4018

Relating to the use of Parks and Wildlife Department land for carbon sequestration or similar ecosystem services projects.

TX HB3604

Relating to the cleaning of a structure used to grow oysters for cultivated oyster mariculture.

TX HB1260

Relating to the cleaning of a structure used to grow oysters for cultivated oyster mariculture.

TX SB1763

Relating to the cleaning of a structure used to grow oysters for cultivated oyster mariculture.

TX HB1942

Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.

TX SB715

Relating to the regulation of sports wagering; requiring occupational permits; authorizing fees; imposing a tax; decriminalizing wagering on certain sports events; creating criminal offenses; providing administrative penalties.

TX HB1809

Relating to the establishment of the commercial oyster mariculture advisory board.

TX HB3652

Relating to the regulation of the cultivation, manufacture, distribution, sale, testing, possession, and use of cannabis and cannabis products; authorizing the imposition of taxes and fees; requiring an occupational license; creating a criminal offense.

Similar Bills

CA AB303

Aquaculture: mariculture production and restoration: pilot program.

TX SB682

Relating to cultivated oyster mariculture; authorizing fees; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB3600

Relating to the establishment of the commercial oyster mariculture advisory board.

CA SB939

Emergencies: COVID-19: commercial tenancies: evictions.

TX HB1809

Relating to the establishment of the commercial oyster mariculture advisory board.

CA SB1093

Mariculture: master permitting program: designation of suitable state waters.