Relating to health benefit coverage for children and grandchildren.
Impact
The enactment of SB1545 will significantly affect state laws related to health insurance coverage, particularly by removing age restrictions that previously limited benefits for children and grandchildren. By allowing coverage without regard to age, the bill aims to provide families with more comprehensive health benefits. This is particularly relevant for families with dependents who may be older than typical coverage limits yet still rely on their parents' or grandparents' insurance for medical needs.
Summary
SB1545 is a legislative proposal aimed at modifying the existing provisions of the Texas Insurance Code concerning health benefit coverage for children and grandchildren. The bill amends various sections to clarify the conditions under which children and grandchildren, regardless of their age, can be entitled to health benefit coverage under certain insurance policies and programs. This change intends to expand access to health coverage for dependents, addressing gaps where family members may have been previously excluded due to age limitations.
Contention
While the bill presents benefits in broadening health coverage, there may be contention around the financial implications for insurance providers and potential impacts on state-funded programs. Concerns could arise about how the change will affect premiums and the sustainability of health benefit programs as more dependents enter the coverage bracket. Stakeholders, including insurance companies and consumer advocacy groups, may debate the efficacy and economic viability of such policy expansions.
Relating to certain providers of subsidized child care, the use of certain personal information to prevent fraud in child-care programs, and the disclosure of certain personal information for the purpose of investigation and enforcement of unemployment compensation violations.