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HB 2477

Relating to coverage for doula services under certain group benefit plans for governmental employees and retirees.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Lauren Simmons

Texas bill mandates doula service coverage under state employee health plans to improve maternal outcomes and birth support access.

Referred to Pensions, Investments & Financial Services
#insurance--health&accident(i0422) #pregnancy&childbirth(s0294) #stateemployees(i0626) #women(i0925)
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Bill Summary · HB 2477

Legislative bill overview

HB 2477 would require certain group health benefit plans covering Texas governmental employees and retirees to include coverage for doula services. Doulas are trained birth coaches who provide physical, emotional, and informational support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum periods. The bill mandates that these services be covered under state employee health insurance plans.

Why is this important

Doula services have been shown in research to reduce maternal complications, cesarean delivery rates, and improve birth outcomes, particularly for underserved populations. Expanding access through public employee insurance could improve health equity while potentially reducing overall healthcare costs through better birth outcomes. This represents a policy shift toward recognizing non-medical support services as valuable healthcare components.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Adding doula coverage increases insurance premiums for state health plans, raising questions about affordability and cost-benefit analysis compared to other healthcare priorities
  • Definition and licensing concerns: Doulas are not state-licensed medical professionals, creating questions about quality standards, credential verification, and oversight mechanisms for reimbursed providers
  • Coverage scope ambiguity: The bill's language about "certain" plans and which services qualify for reimbursement lacks specificity, potentially creating implementation and disputes over covered services and duration

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

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