Texas House Bill HB1329

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the child health plan program.

Impact

On a legislative level, the modifications proposed by HB 1329 are likely to have significant implications for state health and safety laws. This bill essentially expands the Health and Safety Code to permit the Health and Human Services Commission to establish rules that adjust eligibility, review income levels, and manage the costs associated with health benefits for families who qualify under the new income parameters. The inclusion of cost-sharing elements, such as copayments and enrollment fees, signifies a shift towards shared responsibility for health coverage costs among families while maintaining a focus on low-income households.

Summary

House Bill 1329 addresses the Child Health Plan Program in Texas, aiming to expand healthcare access for children from low- to moderate-income families. The bill primarily modifies existing eligibility and income thresholds to allow a greater number of children to receive health benefits. Specifically, it ensures that children from families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level qualify for coverage under the program, thus enhancing healthcare accessibility for more families in need. Additionally, it introduces provisions for offering dental benefits, which previously may not have been accessible to many families in the same income bracket.

Contention

Despite the benefits proposed by this bill, there are potential points of contention regarding the cost-sharing mechanisms introduced. Some lawmakers may express concern that requiring families to contribute to costs, even when their incomes are low, could deter them from seeking necessary healthcare services. There may also be debates surrounding the balance between increasing accessibility through expanded eligibility and ensuring that families do not face undue financial burdens as a result of these changes.