WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HJR 40

Proposing a constitutional amendment requiring the state to expand eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

89th Legislature, 2nd Called Session (2025) Introduced by Ron Reynolds

Texas constitutional amendment enabling Medicaid expansion under the ACA to cover approximately 600,000-800,000 low-income uninsured residents currently ineligible.

Filed
#humanservices--medicalassistance(i0905) #medicaid(s4885) #resolutions--constitutionalamendments(i0661)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HJR 40

Legislative bill overview

HJR 40 proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow Texas to expand Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Currently, Texas has not adopted the ACA's Medicaid expansion, which covers adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level. This amendment would remove any state constitutional barriers to expanding the program.

Why is this important

Texas has the second-largest uninsured population in the nation, with approximately 3.6 million uninsured residents. Medicaid expansion could provide health coverage to roughly 600,000-800,000 additional low-income Texans and would bring federal matching funds to the state. This directly affects healthcare access, public health outcomes, and state budgets.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost concerns: While the federal government covers 90% of expansion costs, Texas would bear the remaining 10%, raising questions about long-term state budget implications
  • Philosophical disagreement: Conservative policymakers have opposed expansion on ideological grounds, viewing it as government overreach, while supporters argue it fills a critical coverage gap
  • Implementation complexity: Expanding Medicaid requires legislative and administrative changes beyond just constitutional authorization, leaving practical questions unresolved

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.