Texas 2025 - 89th Regular

Texas House Bill HB4117

Filed

3/7/25

Out of House Committee

Voted on by House

Out of Senate Committee

Voted on by Senate

Governor Action

Bill Becomes Law

Caption

Relating to the development of a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the child health plan program and the establishment of an advisory committee on home and community-based services.

Impact

The strategic plan required by HB4117 is expected to include a proposal for rate methodologies for services, assessments of unmet needs among Medicaid recipients and enrollees, and standards for access to care. Significant emphasis is placed on evaluating existing gaps in service provision, which could lead to policy adjustments aimed at increasing funding for community-based care and reducing institutionalization. This bill represents a commitment to improving quality of life for vulnerable populations and reducing long-term costs associated with inadequate care infrastructure.

Summary

House Bill 4117 aims to develop a strategic plan for home and community-based services provided under Medicaid and the Child Health Plan Program in Texas. The bill mandates the establishment of an advisory committee that will provide guidance on creating a sustainable strategy for these services, which are critical for individuals with functional limitations who require assistance with daily living. Through this bill, the legislature seeks to ensure better access to necessary services that allow individuals to remain in their homes and communities, which reflects a shift towards person-centered care in healthcare policy.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding this bill may arise from the costs and logistics associated with implementing the strategic plan. Critics may voice concerns over potential budgetary impacts, particularly regarding state funding allocations for Medicaid and healthcare services. Additionally, discussions might include debates on the adequacy of the proposed advisory committee's composition and the effectiveness of its recommendations. The emphasis on home and community-based services could also lead to discussions about the balancing act between enabling autonomy for individuals with disabilities and ensuring comprehensive care standards.

Texas Constitutional Statutes Affected

Government Code

Chapter 526. Additional Powers And Duties Of Commission And Executive Commissioner
- Section: New Section

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

TX HB1798

TX SB663

TX HB4611

Relating to the nonsubstantive revision of the health and human services laws governing the Health and Human Services Commission, Medicaid, and other social services.

TX HB3551

Relating to presumptive eligibility of certain elderly individuals for home and community-based services under Medicaid.

TX HB1293

Relating to the reimbursement of prescription drugs under Medicaid and the child health plan program.

TX HB5020

Relating to the establishment of the Autism Medicaid Services Program Advisory Committee to evaluate the provision of applied behavior analysis services under Medicaid.

TX SB2177

Relating to the establishment of the Autism Medicaid Services Program Advisory Committee to evaluate the provision of applied behavior analysis services under Medicaid.

TX SB1853

Relating to certain procedures in a suit affecting the parent-child relationship for a child placed in the conservatorship of the Department of Family and Protective Services and the provision of family preservation services and community-based foster care.

TX HB5014

Relating to the establishment of the Autism Medicaid Services Program Advisory Council to evaluate the provision of applied behavior analysis services under Medicaid.

TX SB2178