The bill, S.B. No. 115, introduces significant changes regarding civil liability, governmental 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, mental health, and pharmaceutical costs incurred by patients as a result of gender modification procedures, including costs associated with reversing such procedures. Additionally, physicians and healthcare providers are also held liable for malpractice claims related to 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 and establishes 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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