Bill > SB359

This bill proposes comprehensive changes to coverage and provision of reproductive health services in Texas, focusing on abortion, contraception, and sterilization under Medicaid and health benefit plans. The bill mandates that the state's Health and Human Services Commission must provide medical assistance reimbursement for abortion services, FDA-approved contraception (including device insertion and removal), and voluntary sterilization, regardless of federal matching funds availability. These services would be provided without cost-sharing requirements, utilization review, prior authorization, or coverage restrictions. Health benefit plans would be required to cover these reproductive health services, with new definitions including a provision for "effective pain and anxiety management" during medical procedures. The bill also introduces provisions ensuring these services are provided in accordance with state and federal laws. Notably, the changes will apply to health benefit plans delivered, issued, or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, with the entire act taking effect on September 1, 2025. The legislation repeals several existing provisions that previously restricted reproductive health service coverage and introduces more comprehensive and accessible reproductive healthcare provisions.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=SB359