The bill, S.B. No. 351, amends the Health and Safety Code regarding covered benefits under the child health plan in Texas. It modifies Section 62.151 by ensuring that primary and preventive health benefits exclude reproductive services, except for prenatal care and care related to reproductive system diseases. However, it introduces new provisions that require the child health plan to cover prescription contraceptive drugs, supplies, or devices approved by the FDA, while explicitly prohibiting coverage for abortifacients or any drugs that terminate a pregnancy.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that coverage for contraceptive methods for enrolled children under 18 years of age can only be provided if the prescribing healthcare provider obtains written consent from a parent, guardian, or authorized adult. The bill also includes a provision that allows state agencies to delay implementation of any part of the Act 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 that vote is not achieved.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 62.151 (Health and Safety Code 62)