Bill > HB2924

This bill amends the Texas Human Resources Code to create a new provision allowing Medicaid reimbursement for certain expenses incurred by parents or guardians of chronically ill children during hospital stays. Specifically, the bill enables reimbursement for food purchased at the hospital and parking costs, but only under specific conditions: the child must be under 18 years old, diagnosed with a chronic illness designated by the executive commissioner, and hospitalized or receiving healthcare services for that specific chronic illness. The costs must be paid during the child's hospitalization by a parent, guardian, or caretaker. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission will be responsible for implementing this reimbursement, and Medicaid managed care organizations may be required to provide these reimbursements for recipients in their plans. The executive commissioner is tasked with adopting rules to implement the provision, including defining which chronic illnesses qualify and establishing reasonable limits on reimbursement amounts. The bill is set to take effect on September 1, 2025, and allows for potential delays in implementation if federal waivers or authorizations are needed.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB2924