Relating to the abolishment of the Texas Racing Commission and the transfer of its powers and duties to the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation; providing penalties; authorizing fees.
Impact
Should SB364 pass, it will bring significant changes to the current state laws regarding mental health treatment and insurance coverage. The bill will mandate that insurance providers increase the range of covered mental health services, potentially increasing the quality and accessibility of care for many individuals. With provisions aimed at the integration of telemedicine into mental health care, the bill is expected to improve treatment access, especially in areas where mental health professionals may be scarce or where traditional healthcare delivery methods are less feasible.
Summary
SB364 is designed to expand access to mental health services for residents across the state. The bill focuses on improving treatment options available to individuals suffering from mental illnesses by requiring insurance companies to cover more mental health treatment options and services. This includes the promotion of telemedicine as a means to alleviate barriers individuals face in accessing care, particularly those living in rural or underserved areas. The intent of the bill is to ensure that mental health services are treated with the same importance as physical health.
Contention
The discussions surrounding SB364 have revealed notable points of contention among legislators and stakeholders. Supporters argue that improving access to mental health services is crucial to addressing the rising mental health crisis statewide. They cite the importance of insurance coverage modifications in mitigating the stigma associated with seeking mental health care. However, opponents express concerns over the financial implications of such mandates on insurance providers and potential increases in premiums for all insured individuals. Debates have focused on how best to balance comprehensive care with fiscal responsibility while ensuring that no one is left behind in their quest for mental health support.
Relating to the authorization, licensing, and regulation of casino gaming and sports wagering in this state, to the creation, powers, and duties of the Texas Gaming Commission, to the support of the horse racing industry and reform of horse racing and greyhound racing, and to other provisions related to gambling; imposing and authorizing administrative and civil penalties; imposing taxes; imposing and authorizing fees; requiring occupational licenses; creating criminal offenses.
Relating to the regulation and voluntary licensing of reroofing contractors by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation; providing administrative and civil penalties; authorizing fees.
Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Health and Human Services Commission and the transfer to the commission of certain powers and duties from the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Relating to the continuation and transfer of the regulation of willed body programs to the Texas Funeral Service Commission, the regulation of willed body programs, non-transplant anatomical donation organizations, and anatomical facilities, and the creation of the State Anatomical Advisory Committee; requiring registration; authorizing fees; authorizing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the continuation and transfer of the regulation of willed body programs to the Texas Funeral Service Commission, the regulation of willed body programs, non-transplant anatomical donation organizations, and anatomical facilities, and the creation of the State Anatomical Advisory Committee; requiring registration; authorizing fees; authorizing an administrative penalty.
Relating to the powers and duties of the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement and law enforcement agencies regarding law enforcement officers and the use of body worn cameras; authorizing fees.
Relating to the abolishment of the Texas Racing Commission and the transfer of its powers and duties to the Texas Commission of Licensing and Regulation; providing penalties; authorizing fees.
Relating to the transfer of the regulation of racing to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, the abolishment of the Texas Racing Commission, and the creation of the Texas Racing Advisory Board, following recommendations of the Sunset Advisory Commission.
Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.
Relating to eligibility for membership on and the regulation of horse racing by the Texas Racing Commission and a prohibition on the conduct of greyhound or other dog racing as live events in this state; creating a criminal offense; authorizing a fee.
Amending the Kansas parimutuel racing act regarding qualifications for an organization license, the definition of horsemen's associations and horsemen's nonprofit organizations and the distribution of certain tax revenues.