Bill > HB895

This bill establishes the Live Well Texas program, a comprehensive healthcare initiative designed to provide health benefit coverage to low-income adults aged 19-64 who are not currently eligible for Medicaid. The program will offer two health benefit plans: a basic plan for individuals with household incomes at or below 100% of the federal poverty level, and a plus plan for those with incomes above that threshold. Participants will be required to contribute to Personal Wellness and Responsibility (POWER) accounts, which can be used to pay for medical costs and can be supplemented by employer or nonprofit contributions. The bill requires participants to engage in healthy behaviors and provides a gateway to work program to help unemployed participants find job training and employment. The program will seek a federal waiver to implement these services and will provide comprehensive health coverage including preventive care, emergency services, prescription drugs, mental health services, and rehabilitation services. The bill also includes provisions for continued care, such as a "bridge account" to help participants transition to private health insurance if they become ineligible for the program. Notably, the program is designed to terminate if federal funding drops below 90% and is not intended to create an entitlement to healthcare services. The bill aims to improve healthcare access, promote personal responsibility, and support individuals in achieving self-sufficiency.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB895