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HB 136

Relating to Medicaid coverage and reimbursement for lactation consultation services.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Carol Alvarado and 13 co-sponsors

Texas expands Medicaid coverage to reimburse certified lactation consultants, removing cost barriers for low-income families seeking breastfeeding support services.

Effective on 9/1/25
#health&humanservicescommission(v0177) #humanservices--medicalassistance(i0905) #insurance--life #health&accident(i0440) #lactationconsultants(s0360) #medicaid(s4885)
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Bill Summary · HB 136

Legislative bill overview

HB 136 expands Texas Medicaid coverage to include reimbursement for lactation consultation services provided by certified lactation consultants. The bill ensures that low-income Medicaid beneficiaries have access to professional lactation support services, which were previously not consistently covered under the state's Medicaid program.

Why is this important

Lactation consultation can improve breastfeeding success rates, reduce infant health complications, and lower healthcare costs through better maternal and child health outcomes. For low-income families relying on Medicaid, this coverage removes a financial barrier to accessing specialized support that higher-income families can more easily afford.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budget impact: State Medicaid programs must absorb the cost of these new services, which could affect overall program finances and other benefit priorities
  • Provider qualification standards: Determining which credentials qualify as "certified lactation consultant" and setting reimbursement rates requires administrative clarification
  • Utilization and access: Rural and underserved areas may have limited availability of certified lactation consultants, potentially creating geographic disparities in actual access despite coverage expansion

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

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