Texas House Bill HB42

Texas 2021 - 87th Regular

Caption

Relating to prohibited actions regarding health benefit plan coverage for enrollees who refuse to have an abortion; providing a civil penalty.

Impact

HB42 amends existing sections of the Insurance Code, particularly focusing on the coverage provided through both general health plans and those in a health benefit exchange. By establishing clear prohibitions against the loss of coverage due to abortion refusal, the bill seeks to uphold the reproductive choices of individuals. This law would prevent insurance companies from exerting pressure on enrollees to choose abortion as a condition for continued health coverage. The legislation is likely to reinforce consumer protections in health insurance dealings and ensure that personal medical decisions remain with individuals rather than insurance entities.

Summary

House Bill 42 aims to prohibit health benefit plan issuers from conditioning coverage on an enrollee's decision regarding abortion. Specifically, the bill states that health benefit plans cannot require an enrollee to undergo an abortion, regardless of any medical diagnosis of fetal abnormality or viability. This is a significant legislative move concerning reproductive rights, aimed at protecting individuals from losing their health insurance benefits for refusing to undergo abortion procedures. The implications of this bill extend to various health benefit plans, ensuring that enrollees are not coerced into making medical decisions under threat of losing their coverage.

Contention

The bill may stir significant debate among stakeholders, particularly between proponents of reproductive rights and those who oppose abortion. Supporters will argue that the bill upholds personal autonomy and ensures that insurance practices align with ethical health care standards. However, opponents might contend that the bill could inadvertently escalate insurance costs or complicate the regulatory environment for health benefit plans. Additionally, given the sensitive nature of abortion discussions, any legislation in this domain is expected to encounter polarized opinions reflecting the broader societal debates around reproductive health rights.