Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

Texas House Bill HB1227

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

Caption

Relating to the inclusion of an incarcerated person in the population data used for redistricting according to the person's last residence before incarceration.

Impact

HB 1227 would significantly impact state laws concerning healthcare regulations, particularly in the realms of insurance pricing and consumer protection. If passed, the bill would enforce stricter requirements on insurance providers regarding the disclosure of treatment costs, potentially leading to a more competitive market. This change aims to benefit consumers by enabling them to compare prices for services and make cost-effective healthcare decisions. Additionally, the bill would necessitate that providers maintain up-to-date information available for public access, fostering a more transparent healthcare environment.

Summary

House Bill 1227 seeks to enhance healthcare accessibility and affordability for residents by implementing new regulations on insurance providers. The bill emphasizes the importance of transparent pricing and accessibility to medical services, aiming to ensure that patients are well-informed about costs before receiving treatment. By mandating that insurance companies disclose pricing information clearly, the bill empowers consumers to make informed choices regarding their healthcare options. This initiative is designed to address the growing concern over rising healthcare costs and the lack of transparency in medical billing practices.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 1227 is generally positive among advocacy groups focused on consumer rights and healthcare affordability. Supporters argue that the bill addresses critical issues related to healthcare access and would help lower costs for patients. However, some insurance companies have voiced concerns regarding the bill's requirements, claiming it may lead to unanticipated administrative burdens. Debates around the bill highlight a broader discussion on the balance between ensuring fair pricing and maintaining operational flexibility for insurance providers.

Contention

Notably, the primary points of contention include concerns about the practicality of implementing the required transparency measures and how these regulations might affect insurance providers' business models. Critics worry that the bill may inadvertently cause increases in healthcare premiums as insurers adjust to new requirements. Supporters, on the other hand, believe that the long-term benefits of increased transparency would outweigh these concerns by fostering a healthier competitive market that ultimately benefits consumers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Similar Bills

CA AB2657

Incarcerated person’s competence.

CA SB1139

Prisons: visitation.

CA AB2740

Incarcerated persons: prenatal and postpartum care.

CA AB1782

Jails: commissary.

CA AB732

County jails: prisons: incarcerated pregnant persons.

CA AB1177

Parole: hearing records.

CA AB2527

Incarceration: pregnant persons.

CA AB1225

The Dignity for Incarcerated Women Act.