Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Texas House Bill HB3997

Caption

Relating to the transfer of certain functions relating to state employee leave from the state auditor to the comptroller.

Impact

If enacted, HB3997 would bring substantial modifications to existing healthcare regulations at the state level. The bill would set new standards for insurance companies regarding the coverage of essential health services, which could increase the number of people with health insurance. This development would have a direct positive impact on public health by potentially reducing the financial burdens associated with seeking medical care. Additionally, the legislation aims to implement measures that enhance consumer protections, ensuring that patients are not subjected to unexpected charges after receiving care.

Summary

House Bill 3997 proposes significant changes to the state's healthcare laws, focusing on improving access to affordable healthcare for all residents. The bill outlines various provisions aimed at regulating insurance premiums, mandating coverage for essential health services, and enhancing transparency in medical billing practices. Supporters of HB3997 argue that it is a necessary step in ensuring that healthcare is accessible to lower-income citizens and addresses the growing concerns over rising healthcare costs and insurance premiums.

Contention

However, the introduction of HB3997 has not been without opposition. Critics, including some industry representatives and lawmakers, argue that the bill could impose additional financial burdens on insurance providers, ultimately leading to higher premiums for consumers. Concerns revolve around the potential for unintended consequences that might arise from increased regulation, particularly in terms of how it may impact the flexibility and financial viability of insurers operating in the state. This disagreement highlights the broader debate regarding the balance between regulation and free market principles in the healthcare sector.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB2469

Relating to the administration of certain functions relating to state employee leave.

TX HB4370

Relating to the abolishment of the State Energy Conservation Office and the transfer of its functions to the comptroller.

TX HB1418

Relating to state agency contracting and certain state employees involved with the contracting.

TX HB307

Relating to requiring certain employers to provide paid sick leave to employees; providing administrative penalties.

TX HB2927

Relating to quarantine leave for certain public safety employees.

TX HB4498

Relating to the transfer and statutory novation of insurance policies from a transferring insurer to an assuming insurer through an insurance business transfer plan; authorizing fees.

TX SB222

Relating to paid leave by certain state employees for the birth or adoption of a child.

TX HB2157

Relating to the salary of certain employees who transfer within a state agency.

TX SB2441

Relating to the transfer of functions relating to the economic regulation of water and sewer service from the Public Utility Commission of Texas and the Office of Public Utility Counsel to the Water Public Utility Commission and the Office of Water Public Utility Counsel; creating a criminal offense.

TX HB1625

Relating to the use of parental leave, family and medical leave, vacation leave, and sick leave by certain state employees.

Similar Bills

TX HB1524

Relating to correcting outdated references to the Texas Building and Procurement Commission.

TX SB2208

Relating to the transfer of the regulation of property tax professionals from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation to the comptroller of public accounts; providing civil and administrative penalties.

TX SB212

Relating to the abolishment of the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities and the transfer of its functions to the Texas Workforce Commission.

TX HB1989

Relating to the abolishment of the Texas Council on Purchasing from People with Disabilities and the transfer of its functions to the comptroller of public accounts.

NJ ACR95

Proposes amendment to State Constitution to provide for elected State Comptroller and eliminate Office of State Auditor.

NJ ACR104

Proposes amendment to State Constitution to provide for elected State Comptroller and eliminate Office of State Auditor.

TX HB3613

Relating to a Pan American Games trust fund, an Olympic Games trust fund, a Major Events trust fund, a Motor Sports Racing trust fund, and an Events trust fund for sporting and non-sporting events, and to the abolishment of the special event trust fund.

TX SB633

Relating to certain event trust funds and the abolishment of the special event trust fund.