The bill, S.B. No. 115, introduces significant changes regarding civil liability, health plan coverage, and public funding for gender modification procedures and treatments in Texas. It establishes a new chapter in the Civil Practice and Remedies Code, Chapter 74B, which defines "gender modification procedures and treatments" and outlines strict liability for health benefit plan issuers and healthcare providers. Specifically, health benefit plan issuers are held strictly liable for the medical costs associated with gender modification procedures, including any costs related to reversing such procedures. Additionally, healthcare providers are liable for malpractice claims and strictly liable for the same costs incurred by patients as a result of these procedures.

Furthermore, the bill prohibits governmental entities from using public funds for gender modification procedures and restricts health benefit plans from covering these procedures, with exceptions for patients born with specific genetic disorders. The bill also includes provisions that clarify its applicability to various health coverage plans and specifies that it will take effect on September 1, 2025. Overall, the legislation aims to limit the availability and funding of gender modification treatments while imposing strict liability on those who provide such services.

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