Texas Senate Bill SB53

Texas 2017 - 85th Regular

• Filed: 11/14/16

Caption

Relating to the period of continuous eligibility for the medical assistance program.

Note

SB53 highlights a response to the ongoing need for health services among vulnerable populations in Texas, particularly children. Ensuring continuous eligibility can help mitigate the gaps in healthcare access, but will require thorough consideration of the associated financial implications for state resources.

Impact

The proposed changes in SB53 are expected to significantly impact state laws related to healthcare provisions. By simplifying the eligibility criteria for medical assistance, the bill aims to provide greater stability for families who rely on these services, potentially leading to improved healthcare outcomes for children. Moreover, this act aligns with existing federal regulations under 42 U.S.C. Section 1396a, which provides a framework for continuous eligibility in state medical assistance programs.

Summary

Senate Bill 53 aims to amend the Human Resources Code to establish a period of continuous eligibility for children under 19 years of age who qualify for medical assistance. The crucial aspect of this bill is that it seeks to ensure these children remain eligible for medical assistance without requiring additional reviews or assessments by the commission, despite any subsequent changes to their resources or income. This measure effectively allows a child to maintain their eligibility until they reach their 19th birthday or one year from the date their eligibility was initially determined.

Contention

While the bill seems primarily beneficial for children and families, potential points of contention may arise regarding its implementation and funding. There might be concerns about how the state will manage the program's costs, especially if more children maintain their eligibility over an extended period. Moreover, if federal waivers are necessary for certain provisions, there could be delays in implementation, raising questions about accessibility and continuity of care for eligible children.