Bill

HB 1589

86(R) - 2019
House Public Health
House Public Health

Vote Recommendation

No
  • Neutral
  • Neutral
  • Negative
  • Negative
  • Neutral

Author(s)

Evelina Ortega

Bill Caption

Relating to providing notification to certain pregnant women regarding their eligibility for coverage under Medicaid and the Healthy Texas Women program.

Fiscal Notes

According to the Legislative Budget Board, no fiscal impact to the State is anticipated. 

Bill Analysis

HB 1589 would require the Health and Human Services Commission to provide to a woman who is a recipient of Medicaid during her pregnancy written notice that: (1) the woman has continuous coverage under Medicaid through the second month after the pregnancy ends, and (2) if the woman is determined eligible for the Healthy Texas Women program, she will be automatically enrolled and her coverage under the program begins on the first day following the date her Medicaid coverage ends.

Vote Recommendation Notes

Texas Action opposes HB 1589 because it violates the principles of limited government and personal responsibility. It is not the proper role of the to proactively inform individuals what government aid they are qualified to receive, or to automatically enroll people in public benefit programs.