Bill > HB3891

This bill aims to prohibit the Texas Health and Human Services Commission from using intelligence quotient (IQ) criteria as a basis for determining eligibility for Medicaid waiver services for individuals diagnosed with Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS). Specifically, the bill adds Section 546.0457 to the Texas Government Code, which will prevent the commission from requiring PWS patients to meet specific IQ standards to qualify for benefits under a Section 1915(c) waiver program. A Section 1915(c) waiver is a Medicaid program that allows states to provide community-based services to individuals who might otherwise require institutional care. The bill includes provisions allowing state agencies to delay implementation if federal authorization is required and is set to take effect on September 1, 2025. By removing IQ criteria as an eligibility requirement, the bill seeks to ensure that individuals with Prader-Willi Syndrome have more equitable access to necessary Medicaid waiver services, regardless of their cognitive abilities.

Health and Social Services

https://capitol.texas.gov/BillLookup/History.aspx?LegSess=89R&Bill=HB3891