Texas House Bill HB2835

Texas 2015 - 84th Regular

Caption

Relating to the name of the program serving certain persons with special health care needs and prioritizing services provided under the program.

Impact

The legislation emphasizes that when financial constraints limit service availability, priority for assistance should be given to citizens of the United States, as outlined in the bill. This provision aims to streamline the allocation of resources to ensure that citizens seeking aid from the special needs program are served first, thereby adjusting the scope and delivery of services depending on the eligibility of applicants. This aspect of the bill could potentially lead to significant changes in how special health care needs services are administered.

Summary

House Bill 2835 proposes updates to the existing program serving individuals with special health care needs in Texas. The bill advocates for a change in the program's name to encompass a more accurate description of its services, which extend beyond just children to include adults with certain health conditions, specifically those with cystic fibrosis. This change aims to reflect the reality that individuals over the age of 21 can also be part of this program and need access to its benefits. The update is intended to enhance public awareness and accessibility for those who qualify, irrespective of their age.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 2835 appears generally supportive, focusing on inclusivity and prioritizing U.S. citizens in the context of resource allocation. Legislators and advocates that favor the updated provisions argue that it is necessary to provide services in a fair manner amidst limited funding. However, it is likely that there are concerns from advocacy groups about the implications this prioritization might have on individuals who are not lawfully present in the country, reflecting a broader debate on the interplay between healthcare services, citizenship, and immigration status.

Contention

One notable point of contention within the discussions surrounding HB 2835 relates to the proposed changes in prioritizing services based on citizenship. While some legislators believe this is a necessary policy to ensure that local citizens receive the required care in times of constrained resources, opponents may view this stance as exclusionary. This issue raises ethical questions about access to health care and fairness, particularly in a state where immigrants may represent a significant portion of the population benefiting from health care programs.