Texas House Bill HB755

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Out of House Committee: 3/28/11
• Introduced: 1/20/11
• Voted on by House: 4/6/11
• Refer: 2/22/11
• Out of Senate Committee: 5/6/11
• Report Pass: 3/22/11
• Voted on by Senate: 5/10/11
• Engrossed: 4/6/11
• Governor Action: 5/21/11
• Refer: 4/20/11
• Report Pass: 5/6/11
• Enrolled: 5/11/11
• Passed: 5/21/11

Caption

Relating to eligibility of certain dependents for coverage under the state employee group benefits program.

Impact

If enacted, HB 755 would result in significant legislative change in terms of healthcare access for state employees with adult dependents who require regular care. By allowing for coverage continuity under particular conditions, the bill seeks to enhance the security of dependents who are not able to support themselves due to disabilities. Furthermore, this could mean a more stable benefit structure within the state employee benefit program, ultimately reducing potential out-of-pocket healthcare costs for families in such situations.

Summary

House Bill 755 aims to amend the eligibility criteria for dependents under the state employee group benefits program. Specifically, the bill modifies the existing definitions of 'dependent' to clarify inclusion of certain individuals under health benefits. The proposed changes primarily focus on expanding coverage for dependents who may require ongoing support due to mental or physical incapacitation, effectively providing a pathway for individuals aged 25 and older to remain eligible if specific conditions are met.

Contention

While the bill appears to be a positive step towards inclusivity, discussions surrounding HB 755 may involve concerns regarding funding implications and the long-term sustainability of such provisions within the state's benefits framework. Critics could argue about the potential strain it might place on state resources and the fairness of extending such benefits to individuals who may not traditionally fall under the typical definition of a dependent. Balancing the needs of these dependents with budgetary constraints will likely be a point of contention as conversations about this bill progress.