Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

Texas House Bill HB4023

Filed
 
Out of Senate Committee
 
Voted on by Senate
 
Governor Action
 
Bill Becomes Law
 

Caption

Relating to a study and report on the feasibility of providing services and benefits under federally funded public benefit programs to encourage fathers' involvement beginning during pregnancy.

Impact

The results of this study may significantly impact state health policies, particularly regarding how public benefit programs accommodate prospective fathers. By recognizing and encouraging the role of fathers in prenatal care, the legislation aims to foster a more inclusive environment in health discussions surrounding pregnancy. If the study finds a viable path forward, it could lead to expanded access to healthcare services for fathers, which may improve overall family health outcomes and promote shared parental responsibilities in health and wellness.

Summary

House Bill 4023 aims to analyze the feasibility of enhancing father’s involvement during the prenatal stage by offering services and benefits under federally funded public benefit programs. The bill mandates the Health and Human Services Commission to conduct a study that evaluates potential programming designed to provide these benefits and identify funding sources from publicly funded initiatives that could be utilized to bring these services to fruition. The focus is particularly on encouraging the participation of prospective fathers in the health care processes associated with their pregnant partners, potentially aligning screening services similar to those available to mothers.

Contention

While the bill is likely to be welcomed by proponents of family engagement in healthcare, it may raise questions about funding and operational capacity among healthcare providers. Some critics may argue that altering the focus of federally funded programs to include fathers could divert resources from existing maternal health initiatives or complicate the delivery of services. Stakeholder participation and feedback would be key to understanding the potential benefits and challenges of implementing the proposed programming outlined by the bill.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1575

Relating to improving health outcomes for pregnant women under Medicaid and certain other public benefits programs.

TX HB4020

Relating to allowing certain inmates to apply for benefits under certain public benefits programs to be provided at the time of discharge or release.

TX HB1111

Relating to a study on the provision of applied behavior analysis services to children with autism under Medicaid and other public benefits programs.

TX HB3636

Relating to a cost-of-living adjustment applicable to certain benefits paid by the Teacher Retirement System of Texas and a study on the feasibility of providing annual adjustments and an optional cash balance benefit under the system.

TX HB1128

Relating to availability of and benefits provided under health benefit plan coverage.

TX HB4912

Relating to availability of and benefits provided under health benefit plan coverage.

TX SB1859

Relating to benefits and services for veterans and certain other related benefits.

TX HB5073

Relating to benefits and services for veterans and certain other related benefits.

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

TX HB1946

Relating to the categorization, collection, and publication of demographic and other information pertaining to certain public benefits programs.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.