Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3103

Caption

Relating to standardization of insurance and health maintenance organization disclosures.

Impact

If enacted, HB3103 would amend the Insurance Code, effectively mandating that the Texas Commissioner of Insurance adopt rules that promote uniformity in disclosures. This could potentially simplify the process for consumers by reducing confusion around varying disclosure practices. The bill emphasizes that the standardized disclosures should apply as much as practicable across all insurers and HMOs, promoting a level playing field within the insurance market in Texas.

Summary

House Bill 3103 aims to standardize the disclosures provided by insurance companies and health maintenance organizations (HMOs) in Texas. The primary goal of the bill is to ensure that all insurers and HMOs provide the same disclosures with each policy or evidence of coverage they issue. By doing so, HB3103 seeks to enhance transparency and clarity for consumers, making it easier for them to understand the terms of their insurance policies and the coverage provided. This is anticipated to help consumers make more informed decisions when selecting insurance providers.

Contention

While the intent of HB3103 is to enhance consumer understanding and protection, there may be some contention surrounding the practical implications of standardization. Opponents might argue that such a requirement could limit the ability of insurers to provide tailored information that may be useful for specific demographics or unique insurance products. Additionally, some industry groups may express concerns about the administrative burden that could arise from implementing these standardized rules.

Notable_points

Overall, HB3103 reflects an effort to safeguard consumer interests within the insurance market by addressing the need for clarity and consistency in policy disclosures. As the conversation around transparency in insurance continues to evolve, this bill could serve as a critical step towards improving regulatory standards in Texas.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB3091

Relating to identification cards issued by health maintenance organizations and preferred provider organizations.

TX HB4067

Relating to examinations of health maintenance organizations and insurers by the commissioner of insurance regarding compliance with certain utilization review and preauthorization requirements; authorizing a fee.

TX HB2414

Relating to certain practices of a health maintenance organization or insurer to encourage the use of certain physicians and health care providers.

TX HB895

Relating to the use of extrapolation by a health maintenance organization or an insurer to audit claims.

TX SB1141

Relating to the use of extrapolation by a health maintenance organization or an insurer to audit claims.

TX HB4367

Relating to the preauthorization of medical or health care services by a health maintenance organization or an insurer.

TX HB625

Relating to copayments required by a health maintenance organization or preferred provider benefit plan for visiting physical therapists.

TX HB619

Relating to an insurance premium tax credit for contributions made to certain educational assistance organizations.

TX HB3848

Relating to health maintenance organization and preferred provider benefit plan minimum access standards for nonemergency ambulance transport services delivered by emergency medical services providers; providing administrative penalties.

TX HB2366

Relating to the applicability of premium and maintenance taxes to the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.