S.B. No. 238 aims to implement an express lane option under Medicaid and the Child Health Plan Program in Texas. The bill amends Section 62.1011 of the Health and Safety Code to establish that the commission will verify income unless the applicant's reported household income exceeds the eligibility level. It introduces a new Section 62.1012, which allows the commission to evaluate data from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to determine a child's eligibility for coverage under the Child Health Plan Program. The bill also mandates that a new case be opened to prevent delays in benefits for children under SNAP and outlines the process for notifying parents and obtaining consent for enrollment.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 32.026(e) of the Human Resources Code to allow recertification reviews for medical assistance to be conducted via telephone or mail, unless a personal interview is deemed necessary. It introduces Section 32.026102, which mirrors the express lane option for medical assistance benefits, allowing the commission to use SNAP data for eligibility determinations. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely communication and consent from parents or guardians for enrollment in both programs. If federal waivers are needed for implementation, the state agency may delay the process until such waivers are granted. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 62.1011, Human Resources Code 32.026 (Human Resources Code 32, Health and Safety Code 62)