Texas House Bill HB2376

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Caption

Relating to eligibility for and strengthening outreach activities under the child health plan program.

Impact

If enacted, HB 2376 will have significant implications for state health policy by allowing for broader eligibility for public health insurance programs. Rather than solely targeting families at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, the bill would eventually aim to include those at or below 300 percent of this threshold. This expansion is expected to increase the number of children enrolled in health benefits programs, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes through greater access to necessary medical services.

Summary

House Bill 2376 focuses on improving the accessibility of health benefits for children under the Child Health Plan program in Texas. Its primary aim is to amend existing laws to enhance eligibility criteria while also strengthening the outreach and education efforts to inform families about available health benefits. The bill mandates that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission enhance partnerships with stakeholders to facilitate the application process and raise awareness about children's health coverage options, specifically targeting families with incomes below 300 percent of the federal poverty level.

Contention

While supporters argue that this bill will enhance child health coverage and prevent gaps in care, there are concerns regarding the financial implications of such an expansion. Critics may question whether the state can sustain the increased enrollment without adequate funding. The bill includes provisions for the commissioner to evaluate the program's sustainability and to establish waiting lists in case of funding shortfalls, which may lead to further discussions about the adequacy of state health expenditure allocations.

Enforcement

The bill stipulates that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission will regularly evaluate program enrollment and its fiscal health, ensuring that any scaling up of eligibility for health benefits is matched by corresponding funding. The requirement for periodic assessments suggests a commitment to accountability and transparency in the implementation of the Child Health Plan program reforms.