Texas 2013 - 83rd Regular

Texas House Bill HR2421

Caption

Commending Chris Cohen of Midland for rescuing an elderly woman from a burning home.

Impact

The legislation is projected to have significant implications for state laws governing healthcare. By establishing federal standards for pricing transparency and insurance coverage, HR2421 may preempt existing state laws that do not align with these federal guidelines. As a result, state governments may need to adapt their healthcare regulations to comply with the new federal requirements, potentially leading to a more uniform healthcare landscape across states, but also raising concerns about states’ rights and their ability to tailor healthcare solutions for specific local needs.

Summary

HR2421 is designed to reform and enhance access to affordable healthcare services. The bill aims to reduce costs associated with healthcare insurance and improve the quality of care for patients across the nation. This is achieved by implementing measures that increase transparency in pricing, enabling consumers to make informed decisions regarding their healthcare options. Proponents assert that this will lead to increased competition among healthcare providers, ultimately benefiting the consumers through expanded access and reduced costs.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment regarding HR2421 appears to be positive among healthcare consumer advocacy groups and many lawmakers focused on enhancing patient access to affordable care. However, there is also a notable level of apprehension among some stakeholders, particularly within segments of the healthcare industry, who fear that the changes proposed may disrupt existing business models and lead to unintended consequences, such as a decrease in the quality of healthcare services or increased costs for providers.

Contention

Notable points of contention center around the implementation of transparency measures and the potential for unintended negative effects on the healthcare system. Critics have raised concerns that mandating explicit pricing information could lead to price inflation, as providers may adjust their rates to match competitors. Additionally, there is debate over whether these federal mandates will undermine state-level innovations that have been developed to address local healthcare issues, suggesting that the balance between federal oversight and state autonomy will be a critical point of contention as the bill moves through the legislative process.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HCR118

Commending Bobby Burns on his service as president and CEO of the Midland Chamber of Commerce.

TX HR24

Commending Ben Lai for his service as a legislative intern in the office of State Representative Chris Turner.

TX HR25

Commending Andrew Paumen for his service as a legislative intern in the office of State Representative Chris Turner.

TX HCR6

Congratulating former Midland High School baseball coach Barry Russell on his induction into the Midland ISD Hall of Legends.

TX HR39

In memory of Christopher Thomas Branham.

TX HCR67

In memory of Jafar "Jeff" Rahim Salehi of Midland.

TX HR667

Commending Bobbie Cohen for her service to the Greater Houston Section of the National Council of Jewish Women.

TX HR744

Commending Christine Singh for her service on the occasion of Women's History Month.

TX HR2364

Commending Christianna Augusta McAfee for her service as a legislative aide in the office of State Representative Christian Manuel.

TX HR375

Commending Chris Schuchart for his service as Medina County judge.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.