The "Live Well Texas Program" bill aims to enhance healthcare access in Texas by expanding Medicaid eligibility for certain individuals and establishing a new health benefit coverage program. It introduces two new chapters, 532A and 532B, to the Government Code, which define key terms and outline the program's structure, including the establishment of a federal waiver for implementation. The bill emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility among participants and clarifies that the program will not create an entitlement to health benefits, with provisions for termination if federal funding falls below a specified threshold. It also grants the commission authority to administer the program, including contracting with third-party administrators and defining eligibility criteria for residents aged 19 to 64 who do not qualify for existing Medicaid.

Additionally, the bill enhances the eligibility screening and enrollment processes, requiring applications to be available in multiple languages and allowing various methods of application. It mandates timely eligibility determinations and notifications for participants regarding their status. New provisions for pregnant participants allow them to remain in the program without cost-sharing until two months post-pregnancy, along with additional Medicaid benefits. The bill also establishes personal wellness and responsibility (POWER) accounts for participants, incentivizing healthy behaviors and providing financial support for healthcare costs. It includes penalties for failure to make required contributions and mandates a "gateway to work" program for unemployed participants. The bill expands Medicaid eligibility under the Affordable Care Act and requires the Health and Human Services Commission to apply for necessary waivers, with provisions taking effect immediately upon a two-thirds vote or on September 1, 2025, if that vote is not achieved.

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