Texas Senate Bill SB2577

Texas 2009 - 81st Regular

• Out of Senate Committee: 5/12/09
• Voted on by Senate: 5/15/09
• Out of House Committee: 5/21/09
• Voted on by House: 5/27/09
• Governor Action: 6/19/09
• Enrolled: 5/28/09
• Passed: 6/19/09

Caption

Relating to bariatric surgery coverage for state employees.

Impact

The implementation of SB2577 would have a substantial impact on the health benefits available to state employees. By mandating the inclusion of bariatric surgery in the group benefits program, the state acknowledges the importance of addressing obesity and its associated health risks. This could lead to an overall improvement in employee health outcomes, potentially reducing long-term healthcare costs for both the state and its employees by mitigating conditions related to obesity.

Summary

SB2577 is a legislative proposal aimed at expanding health care coverage for state employees in Texas by including bariatric surgery as a covered benefit under the group benefits program. The bill requires the board of trustees to develop a plan that ensures coverage is either cost-neutral or cost-positive. This provision is designed to address the rising obesity rates by providing state employees with access to potentially life-saving surgical procedures that can lead to significant health improvements.

Contention

While the goal of SB2577 is to enhance health coverage, there may be points of contention surrounding the cost implications and the logistical feasibility of implementing such a coverage plan. Some stakeholders may argue about how to maintain the cost-neutral or cost-positive requirement, especially considering the expensive nature of surgical interventions. Additionally, concerns about eligibility criteria and the potential for increased insurance premiums could be debated among lawmakers and the public.