S.B. No. 527 amends the Texas Insurance Code by adding a new Subchapter G, which specifically addresses health benefit coverage for general anesthesia related to certain pediatric dental services. The bill mandates that health benefit plans providing coverage for general anesthesia cannot exclude medically necessary anesthesia services for individuals under 13 years of age who are unable to undergo dental procedures without it due to documented physical, mental, or medical reasons. Additionally, the anesthesia must be administered by a qualified provider.

The bill clarifies that while it requires coverage for general anesthesia in these specific circumstances, it does not obligate health benefit plans to cover dental care or procedures themselves. The provisions of this new subchapter will apply to health benefit plans that are delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, and the act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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