The bill amends the Health and Safety Code regarding covered benefits under the child health plan, specifically addressing reproductive health services. It stipulates that while primary and preventive health benefits generally do not include reproductive services, with the exception of prenatal care and related conditions, the child health plan must now provide coverage for prescription contraceptive drugs, supplies, or devices approved by the FDA. However, it explicitly prohibits coverage for abortifacients or any drugs or devices that terminate a pregnancy.
Additionally, the bill introduces provisions for children under 18 years of age, allowing them to receive coverage for contraceptive methods only if a healthcare provider obtains written consent from a parent, guardian, or authorized adult. The bill also includes a clause that permits state agencies to delay implementation of any provision until necessary federal waivers or authorizations are obtained. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if such a vote is not achieved.
Statutes affected: Introduced: Health and Safety Code 62.151 (Health and Safety Code 62)