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HB 536

Relating to covered benefits under the child health plan.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Donna Howard

HB 536 modifies Texas child health plan (CHIP) coverage benefits, affecting healthcare access for low-income children currently in the program.

Referred to Public Health
#familyplanning&birthcontrol(s0466) #health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #health--children'sinsurance(i0388) #humanservices--childservices(i0895) #medicine&prescriptiondrugs(s7338)
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Bill Summary · HB 536

Legislative bill overview

HB 536 modifies the scope of covered benefits under Texas's child health plan (CHIP), though the specific benefits being added or removed are not detailed in the available legislative record. The bill was introduced by Representative Donna Howard and is currently in the Public Health Committee after its first reading in March 2025.

Why is this important

Changes to CHIP coverage directly affect healthcare access for approximately 1.5 million low-income Texas children. Expansions or contractions of covered benefits can determine whether families can afford necessary medical services, preventive care, or treatments for chronic conditions without significant financial burden.

Potential points of contention

  • Fiscal impact: Whether expanded benefits increase state costs or if benefit reductions create coverage gaps for vulnerable populations
  • Scope of coverage: Disagreement over which services should be prioritized (mental health, dental, vision, specialty care) given budget constraints
  • Implementation timeline: Questions about how quickly changes can be operationalized and communicated to enrolled families and providers

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

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