Bill > SB195

This bill proposes to: 1. Establish the "Live Well Texas" program to provide primary and preventative healthcare coverage through high-deductible health plans to eligible low-income Texas residents who do not qualify for Medicaid. The program would be funded through enhanced federal Medicaid matching funds and would include basic and plus plan options, with the plus plan offering additional benefits like dental and vision care. 2. Require participants in the plus plan to contribute to personal wellness and responsibility (POWER) accounts to help cover deductibles and copays, with the state initially funding the accounts and providing incentives for healthy behaviors. The bill also includes provisions for continuity of care and financial assistance to help participants transition to private insurance after becoming ineligible for the program. 3. Expand Medicaid eligibility in Texas to cover all individuals who would be eligible for the Live Well Texas program, if the program is not implemented. This Medicaid expansion is contingent on the state receiving federal approval for the Live Well Texas program waiver. Overall, the bill aims to extend healthcare coverage to low-income Texans who currently fall in the "coverage gap" between Medicaid and the health insurance marketplace, while incentivizing personal responsibility and healthy behaviors.