Texas House Bill HB3776

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to establishing a program designed to ensure health benefit plan coverage to certain children through the private marketplace.

Impact

The implications of HB3776 are significant as it focuses on improving healthcare access for children who fall into a coverage gap. By creating a program that connects families to private health plans with premium assistance, the bill aims to alleviate the burden on families struggling to afford healthcare. This approach could enhance overall child health outcomes by increasing the number of children with health insurance coverage, particularly in low-income households. The executive commissioner is tasked with defining specific eligibility requirements, which could shape the program's reach and effectiveness.

Summary

House Bill 3776 establishes a program aimed at ensuring health benefit plan coverage for certain children through the private marketplace. The bill stipulates that the program will be developed by the commission in consultation with the commissioner of insurance. It intends to connect children under 19 years old who are ineligible for Medicaid or the child health plan program due to income limits to private health benefit plans. Eligibility criteria will particularly target families lacking access to affordable health coverage through employer-sponsored plans or premium subsidies under the Affordable Care Act.

Contention

While HB3776 has a clear objective of increasing health coverage for children, it may face scrutiny regarding its reliance on private market solutions. Critics might argue that privatization could lead to higher costs for families and question whether the proposed premium assistance will be substantial enough to make a meaningful impact. Additionally, there may be concerns about the long-term sustainability of such a program and whether it effectively addresses the gaps in coverage without creating unintended consequences for existing healthcare systems.