Relating to the duties and powers of the office of public insurance counsel concerning the adequacy of networks offered in this state by managed care plans.
Impact
The impact of HB336 on state laws includes a more defined and proactive role for the Office of Public Insurance Counsel in advocating for consumers. The statute grants the Office the power to assess the adequacy of networks offered by managed care plans, advocate for improved standards, and file complaints concerning network inadequacies. Moreover, the bill mandates that managed care plans provide timely information regarding their network filings to the Office, thus enabling better scrutiny and accountability in their operations, significantly enhancing consumer protections in the state.
Summary
House Bill 336 seeks to enhance the responsibilities and authorities of the Office of Public Insurance Counsel concerning managed care plans in Texas. The bill amends existing sections of the Insurance Code to bolster the Office's oversight capabilities regarding network adequacy for managed care plans, such as health maintenance organizations and preferred provider benefit plans. It aims to ensure that these plans maintain sufficient provider networks to adequately serve Texas consumers, thereby addressing concerns about the accessibility and quality of healthcare services provided under such plans.
Contention
Notable points of contention surrounding HB336 stem from concerns about the administrative burden it may impose on managed care plans and the potential for increased scrutiny that could arise from the Office's enhanced powers. Supporters argue that the bill is crucial for protecting consumers from inadequate healthcare access, while opponents may contend that such oversight could hinder the flexibility and operational efficiency of managed care plans. The balance between ensuring sufficient consumer protections and maintaining a conducive environment for managed care providers is at the forefront of discussions regarding this bill.
Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the economic regulation of water and sewer service from the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel to the Water Public Utility Commission and the Office of Water Public Utility Counsel; creating a criminal offense.
Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel, and the functions of the independent organization certified for the ERCOT power region; increasing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the transfer and statutory novation of insurance policies from a transferring insurer to an assuming insurer through an insurance business transfer plan; authorizing fees.
Relating to the fiduciary responsibility of the governing body of the public retirement systems in this state and the investment managers and proxy advisors acting on behalf of those systems.