Texas Senate Bill SB611

Texas 2011 - 82nd Regular

• Introduced: 2/11/11
• Refer: 2/17/11

Caption

Relating to the child health plan program.

Impact

The enactment of SB611 would significantly impact state laws governing children's healthcare access by amending the Health and Safety Code. Key changes include allowing families to possess higher allowable assets while applying for the child health plan, thus minimizing financial barriers to accessing medical services. Additionally, the bill mandates service providers to adopt a prospective payment system, enhancing compensation for rural healthcare services, which could lead to improved healthcare delivery in underserved areas.

Summary

SB611, relating to the child health plan program, aims to expand eligibility and improve access to health benefits for children in Texas. It modifies the criteria for determining eligibility based on family income levels and includes changes to income definition, cost-sharing requirements, and outreach efforts to increase enrollment. The bill emphasizes making healthcare coverage available to children whose family income is at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level and introduces a buy-in option for families making slightly above that threshold.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB611 appears generally positive among proponents who argue that expanding access to healthcare aligns with equity and public health goals. However, challenges concerning the funding for the increased eligibility and potential strain on state resources were noted by some stakeholders. The feedback indicates a mix of optimism for improved health outcomes and concerns about how the state will manage increased participation in the program.

Contention

A point of contention surrounding SB611 includes the cost-sharing requirements that may pose challenges for families at the higher income threshold (up to 400 percent of the poverty level) regarding affordability. Another concern raised is the potential administrative burden on the Health and Human Services Commission that could arise from managing an expanded eligibility framework. Additionally, questions regarding the implementation of community outreach efforts to ensure that eligible families are informed and assisted in the application process were highlighted as critical to the bill's success.