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Bill

SB 351

Relating to covered benefits under the child health plan.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 3 co-sponsors

Texas SB 351 modifies child health plan covered benefits, affecting healthcare access for low-income children, currently under Health & Human Services Committee review.

Referred to Health & Human Services
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Bill Summary · SB 351

Legislative bill overview

SB 351 modifies covered benefits under Texas's child health plan (CHIP), though specific benefit changes are not detailed in the available legislative record. The bill was filed in November 2024 and recently referred to the Health & Human Services Committee for consideration during the current legislative session.

Why is this important

Changes to CHIP covered benefits directly affect healthcare access for approximately 900,000+ low-income Texas children and families. Expansions or modifications to covered services can determine whether families receive preventive care, mental health services, dental care, or other critical treatments without additional out-of-pocket costs.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost implications: Any benefit expansions require budget allocation; opponents may argue costs are unsustainable while supporters contend preventive care reduces long-term healthcare expenses
  • Scope of coverage: Disagreement likely exists over which services should be included (e.g., vision, dental, behavioral health) and whether coverage should match adult Medicaid or exceed it
  • Implementation burden: Healthcare providers and state administrators may debate administrative complexity and feasibility of implementing new benefit requirements

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

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