Texas Senate Bill SB174

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to certain duties of a sheriff regarding a county jail prisoner's health benefits coverage information.

Impact

The implementation of SB174 could lead to significant changes in how county jails manage healthcare for inmates. By formalizing the collection of health benefits information, the bill aims to facilitate the payment process for healthcare services rendered to prisoners. This could lessen the financial burden on county budgets while ensuring that prisoners receive adequate medical care. The law would apply specifically to counties that operate jails capable of confining 800 or more prisoners, thereby targeting larger facilities where the management of healthcare services may be more complex.

Summary

SB174 is a legislative proposal that amends the Government Code of Texas by introducing specific duties for sheriffs concerning the health benefits coverage information of prisoners. The bill mandates that sheriffs collect information from prisoners who are covered by health insurance or other health benefits. This collection includes the name of the policyholder, policy number, and a copy of the health coverage membership card, when available. The intent of this provision is to ensure that prisoners can access their health benefits while incarcerated, which can potentially reduce costs associated with healthcare services in county jails.

Contention

While the bill appears to streamline the process of healthcare management for inmates, there may be concerns regarding privacy and the handling of sensitive health information. Critics might question the adequacy of protections in place to ensure that personal health data is not misused or disclosed without consent. Additionally, there may be debate over the responsibilities imposed on sheriffs and whether they are adequately equipped or trained to handle such duties within the context of prison operations.