Texas Senate Bill SB1896

Texas 2019 - 86th Regular

Caption

Relating to alternate health benefit plan contact information for victims of family violence.

Impact

If passed, SB1896 would have a significant impact on the way health benefit plan issuers handle sensitive contact information for policyholders who are victims of family violence. The law would require that health benefit plan issuers respect the privacy of these individuals by not disclosing alternate contact information to the policyholder or certificate holder without explicit consent. This would necessitate guidelines and rules to ensure proper application procedures and information security for health benefit plans across Texas.

Summary

SB1896 seeks to establish provisions for alternate contact information related to health benefit plans for victims of family violence. The bill introduces Chapter 1222 to the Insurance Code, enabling individuals who are covered under health benefit plans to apply for the designation of an alternate mailing address or contact number. This measure is intended to enhance the safety of victims by allowing them to keep their personal information confidential from individuals who may pose a threat due to family violence situations.

Contention

While the intent behind SB1896 is largely seen as positive, there are considerations regarding its implementation. Critics may express concerns about how effectively health benefit plan issuers can manage and secure alternate contact information in practice, as well as the potential bureaucratic burden on both victims needing to apply for such protection and the issuers tasked with compliance. Nevertheless, the recognition of privacy needs for vulnerable individuals in the context of family violence underscores the critical importance of this legislative effort.