Texas 2021 - 87th 1st C.S.

Texas House Bill HB109

Caption

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid in certain counties under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Impact

If enacted, HB109 could significantly alter healthcare access in Texas, particularly in areas where residents currently lack sufficient means to qualify for Medicaid. By enabling counties to apply for waivers that expand eligibility criteria, the bill seeks to leverage federal funding opportunities to enhance local healthcare resources. This could lead to improved health outcomes and financial security for low-income residents, which is especially critical in underserved areas. However, the implementation of such expansions would rely on careful oversight, ensuring that counties can effectively manage new beneficiaries and resources.

Summary

House Bill 109 proposes to expand Medicaid eligibility for certain counties within Texas by allowing these counties to seek federal waivers that would grant Medicaid benefits to additional residents who are not typically eligible. This bill outlines an amendment to the Government Code, specifically introducing a new chapter that facilitates the process for counties to seek and implement these waivers under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The intent of the bill is to provide broader access to healthcare for residents in specific areas, potentially reducing the number of uninsured individuals in those counties.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, HB109 may face opposition focused on budgetary concerns and the sustainability of expanding Medicaid. Opponents may argue about the long-term financial implications for state and local budgets, particularly regarding the state’s share of Medicaid costs that might increase with more residents enrolled. Additionally, there could be debates about the administrative capacity of counties to manage expanded Medicaid programs, particularly in terms of funding, as outlined in the bill’s requirements for identifying funding sources and managing resources effectively. These discussions around fiscal responsibility versus improving health access will be central in the legislative process surrounding HB109.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB204

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid in certain counties under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HB512

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX SB71

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HB132

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX SB39

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HB19

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HB32

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HB18

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HB24

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HB226

Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Similar Bills

UT SB0257

Medicaid Accounts Amendments

UT HB0247

Child Health Care Coverage Amendments

AR SB518

To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act; And To Update Language And Definitions To Reflect Changes Within The Healthcare System;.

AR SB515

To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act.

UT HB0463

Medicaid Funding Amendments

NJ A3334

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.

NJ S2416

Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.

NJ S3495

Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.