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HB 3396

Relating to the authority of certain medical consenters to assume financial responsibility for certain out-of-network medical care provided to children in foster care.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by James Frank and 1 co-sponsor

Bill permits foster care medical decision-makers to accept financial responsibility for out-of-network pediatric care, potentially improving access to specialized services while clarifying cost obligations.

Laid on the table subject to call
#family&protectiveservices #departmentof(v0461) #fostercare(s0064) #healthcareproviders(i0387) #health--children'sinsurance(i0388) #humanservices--childservices(i0895) #managedcare(s0454) #medicaid(s4885) #minors--health&safety(i0533)
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Bill Summary · HB 3396

Legislative bill overview

HB 3396 permits certain medical decision-makers for children in foster care to assume financial responsibility for out-of-network medical care. The bill clarifies authority for those making medical decisions on behalf of foster children to potentially agree to pay costs associated with care provided by providers outside their insurance network.

Why is this important

Foster children often require specialized medical services that may not be available within in-network providers, creating barriers to necessary care. This bill addresses who can authorize such care and how financial responsibility is assigned, which could improve access to treatment while defining liability for costs that would otherwise fall on the state or child welfare system.

Potential points of contention

  • Financial liability ambiguity: Unclear whether foster parents, caseworkers, or other consenters would be personally liable for out-of-network costs or if the state retains ultimate financial responsibility
  • Consent authority scope: Questions about which individuals qualify as "certain medical consenters" and whether their authority extends beyond medical decisions to financial commitments
  • Cost burden concerns: Potential for out-of-network billing to increase expenses for foster care systems if financial responsibility defaults to caregivers without clear state funding mechanisms

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

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