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Bill

SB 1409

Relating to health benefits offered by postsecondary educational institutions to students and their families.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Suleman Lalani and 2 co-sponsors

Texas requires postsecondary institutions to offer health insurance plans to students and families, effective immediately, expanding coverage access for historically uninsured student populations.

Effective immediately
#education--higher--institutions&programs(i0223) #insurance--health&accident(i0422)
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Bill Summary · SB 1409

Legislative bill overview

SB 1409 requires Texas postsecondary educational institutions to offer health benefits plans to students and their families. The bill mandates that these institutions make health insurance options available, though it does not appear to require institutions to subsidize or bear the cost of such coverage. The legislation became effective immediately upon the Governor's signature in May 2025.

Why is this important

Many students lack health insurance, which can prevent them from seeking preventive care and create financial hardship in medical emergencies. By requiring institutions to offer health benefits plans, the bill aims to expand access to affordable coverage for a vulnerable population. This could reduce uninsured rates among students and improve health outcomes, though actual impact depends on plan affordability and enrollment rates.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation: Unclear whether institutions must absorb administrative costs or can pass expenses to students through premium requirements, potentially making coverage unaffordable for lower-income students
  • Plan quality and scope: The bill's specifics on coverage requirements, deductibles, and network adequacy are not detailed, raising questions about whether mandated plans provide meaningful protection
  • Administrative burden: Smaller institutions may face disproportionate compliance challenges in establishing and managing health benefit programs

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

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