Texas House Bill HB181

Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

• Filed: 11/12/24

Caption

Relating to a requirement that public institutions of higher education provide applicants with certain information regarding eligibility for public health programs.

Impact

The bill is expected to enhance awareness among new students regarding their health care options by providing information tailored to the needs of the student population. This initiative could potentially increase enrollment in public health programs as students become more aware of their eligibility and the benefits available to them. Effective dissemination of this information will require collaboration between educational institutions and the Health and Human Services Commission, which is tasked with creating and updating informational materials.

Summary

House Bill 181 mandates that public institutions of higher education in Texas provide specific information to applicants about eligibility for public health programs. Under this bill, every entering freshman or undergraduate transfer student must receive clear and comprehensive details about public health benefits, including Medicaid and the child health plan program. The bill aims to educate students about their healthcare options and ensure that they are well-informed before they pursue enrollment in these programs.

Contention

While the bill is largely aimed at improving access to healthcare for students, there may be concerns regarding the implementation of the requirement. Educational institutions might face challenges in ensuring that the information provided is clear and comprehensible, given the diverse backgrounds of student populations. Additionally, there is a potential debate about the responsibilities of higher education institutions in becoming conduits for health program information, which some may view as beyond their primary educational mission.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Education Code

• Chapter 51. Provisions Generally Applicable To Higher Education
  • Section: New Section