Texas 2023 - 88th Regular

Texas House Bill HJR17

Voted on by House
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Sent toSOS
 
Proposed Const. Amend.
 

Caption

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Impact

If enacted, HJR17 would significantly alter the landscape of healthcare law in Texas by broadening Medicaid coverage. It introduces an obligation for the state to provide medical assistance to all eligible individuals, thus expanding the safety net for low-income residents. The implementation of this amendment is set to take effect on January 1, 2024, with a temporary provision ending on January 1, 2025. This shift could have profound implications on public health outcomes, particularly in communities that have historically faced barriers to care.

Summary

HJR17 proposes a constitutional amendment that mandates the state of Texas to expand Medicaid eligibility to individuals for whom federal matching funds are available under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This amendment aims to address the gap in healthcare coverage by ensuring that more residents can access necessary medical assistance. The bill reflects an ongoing debate in the state regarding healthcare access and the role of Medicaid, particularly highlighting the need for alignment with federal healthcare provisions.

Sentiment

The discussions surrounding HJR17 reveal a division in sentiment among lawmakers and stakeholders. Proponents view the expansion of Medicaid as a necessary step to improve health equity and access to healthcare, particularly for vulnerable populations. Conversely, opponents may express concerns regarding the financial implications for the state and the potential for Medicaid expansion to lead to increased government intervention in healthcare. Overall, the sentiment remains contentious, with strong arguments presented on both sides.

Contention

The primary points of contention revolve around the financial responsibility of expanding Medicaid and the broader implications for Texas's healthcare system. Advocates argue that the expansion will lead to long-term savings and improved health outcomes, while critics question the sustainability of funding such an increase in coverage through state resources. The debate is not merely about healthcare policy but touches upon larger themes of state versus federal control, economic implications, and the socio-political responsibilities of the state government.

Companion Bills

TX SJR6

Identical Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX SJR10

Same As Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR7

Same As Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR117

Same As Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HB512

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

Previously Filed As

TX HJR117

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR7

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX SJR10

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR3

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR10

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR5

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX SJR6

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR5

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX SJR11

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

TX HJR23

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain persons under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.