Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3560

Caption

Relating to a joint interim study regarding health benefit coverage for obesity under certain health benefit plans.

Impact

The bill, if implemented, signifies a potential shift in how health benefit policies are developed regarding obesity treatment. It emphasizes a thorough analysis of current coverage options and the rationale behind the limitations or exclusions faced by individuals. The findings from the committee are expected to inform recommendations for future statutory changes, potentially amending the Insurance Code to enhance the availability of health insurance benefits addressing obesity.

Summary

House Bill 3560 serves as an initiative to address health benefit coverage for obesity via a joint interim study. The bill mandates the formation of a committee composed of appointed senators, representatives, and a governor's appointee to explore existing health benefit plans, particularly focusing on coverage related to the diagnosis and treatment of obesity. The study aims to provide a comprehensive review of what is currently offered in terms of health benefits and identify any exclusions prevalent in these plans.

Sentiment

The sentiment around HB 3560 appears to be supportive, as it promotes a structured approach to understanding and potentially improving health benefits for obesity, which is a significant public health issue. Stakeholders from various sectors seem optimistic that the review process will yield actionable insights, leading to better healthcare coverage for individuals battling obesity and its related health challenges.

Contention

While the bill is primarily aimed at studying health benefits, there may be contentions regarding the adequacy of the timelines and resources provided to the joint committee for its work. Critics might raise concerns about whether the focus of the study is sufficiently comprehensive to effect real change or if it merely serves as a cursory examination without implementation of significant policy reforms.

Companion Bills

TX SB756

Relating to required coverage for obesity under group health benefit plans.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1128

Relating to availability of and benefits provided under health benefit plan coverage.

TX HB4912

Relating to availability of and benefits provided under health benefit plan coverage.

TX SB989

Relating to health benefit plan coverage for certain biomarker testing.

TX HB3188

Relating to health benefit plan coverage for certain biomarker testing.

TX HB389

Relating to health benefit coverage for certain fertility preservation services under certain health benefit plans.

TX SB447

Relating to health benefit coverage for certain fertility preservation services under certain health benefit plans.

TX SB1277

Relating to health benefit coverage for certain fertility preservation services under certain health benefit plans.

TX HB826

Relating to modification of certain prescription drug benefits and coverage offered by certain health benefit plans.

TX SB1221

Relating to modification of certain prescription drug benefits and coverage offered by certain health benefit plans.

TX SB861

Relating to coordination of vision and eye care benefits under certain health benefit plans and vision benefit plans.

Similar Bills

NJ AR96

Changes membership of Budget and Labor Committees; clarifies that bill or resolution may be listed on committee agenda for purposes of amendment.

MI HB4326

Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; provision related to officeholders raising funds when facing a recall; modify, and require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.

MI HB4870

Campaign finance: contributions and expenditures; funds donated to a candidate for recall efforts; require candidate to establish a separate account used for recall purposes. Amends secs. 3, 11, 12, 21, 24 & 52 of 1976 PA 388 (MCL 169.203 et seq.) & adds sec. 21b.

MN HC6

A concurrent resolution recognizing wild rice as sacred and central to the culture and health of Indigenous Peoples in Minnesota and critical to the health and identity of all Minnesota citizens and ecosystems and establishing a commitment to passing legislation to protect wild rice and the freshwater resources upon which it depends.

CA SB602

Advisory bodies.

CA SB1048

Advisory bodies.

CA AB3239

Advisory bodies.

KS HR6003

Providing temporary rules of the House of Representatives for the 2023 session until permanent rules are adopted.