S.B. No. 636 aims to enhance coverage for mental health conditions and substance use disorders under certain governmental health benefit plans in Texas. The bill amends various sections of the Insurance Code to clarify the applicability of coverage plans, specifically including basic coverage plans under Chapters 1551, 1575, 1579, and 1601. It introduces new provisions that ensure compliance with treatment limitations for mental health services, requiring both the commissioner and applicable trustees to evaluate benefits and coverage for inpatient and outpatient care, emergency care, and prescription drugs.

Additionally, the bill repeals a previous provision that limited the applicability of certain plans and modifies existing language to ensure that coverage for serious mental illnesses is not less extensive than that for physical illnesses. The changes will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to plan years commencing on or after January 1, 2026, allowing for a transition period for existing plans.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Insurance Code 1355.002, Insurance Code 1355.003, Insurance Code 1355.015, Insurance Code 1355.252, Insurance Code 1355.255 (Insurance Code 1355)
Senate Committee Report: Insurance Code 1355.002, Insurance Code 1355.003, Insurance Code 1355.015, Insurance Code 1355.252, Insurance Code 1355.255, Insurance Code 1551.205 (Insurance Code 1355, Insurance Code 1551)