Texas House Bill HB1578

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to the establishment of a medical reinsurance system and to certain insurance reforms necessary to the efficient operation of that system; providing an administrative penalty.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1578 would amend the Insurance Code to incorporate comprehensive guidelines for the operation of the Texas Medical Reinsurance System. This would include requirements for insurers to acquire reinsurance for individual stop-loss policies and health benefit plans. The bill defines the roles and responsibilities of a board overseeing the system, alongside a management company that would handle daily operations. By establishing a clear structure for financial protections against excessive claims, the bill seeks to alleviate the burden that unexpected health care costs can impose on both insurers and insured individuals.

Summary

House Bill 1578 proposes the establishment of a medical reinsurance system in Texas, with the intent of improving the efficiency and stability of health insurance markets within the state. The bill introduces significant reforms to existing insurance regulations, specifically targeting stop-loss insurance for self-funded entities and creating a framework for the Texas Medical Reinsurance System. This system aims to mitigate the financial risks of high health care claims by offering reinsurance to health benefit plan issuers and insurers, thereby enhancing the stability of health care coverage for Texans.

Contention

Though HB 1578 presents a framework aimed at mitigating insurance costs, there may be points of contention regarding the implemented rules and the operational capabilities of the proposed board and management company. Stakeholders, including insurance companies and health care providers, might express concerns over regulatory compliance, the sufficiency of funding for the reinsurance system, and how the changes could affect the availability and pricing of insurance products. Moreover, the implementation of the new system may encounter challenges in transitioning from existing regulatory frameworks to facilitate the effective operation of the medical reinsurance model.