The bill, S.B. No. 962, aims to enhance the provision of certain benefits, including applied behavior analysis, behavior supports, and associated evaluation services, through telecommunications or information technology within public benefits programs in Texas. It amends Section 548.0001(b) of the Government Code to ensure that Medicaid recipients, child health plan program enrollees, and other individuals receiving benefits can access these services via telemedicine or telehealth. Notably, the bill includes new provisions allowing for the delivery of services under a Section 1915(c) waiver program and explicitly lists applied behavior analysis and associated evaluation services as part of the benefits that can be provided through these technologies.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that if a state agency determines that a federal waiver or authorization is necessary for implementing any provision of the Act, the agency may delay implementation until such waiver or authorization is granted. The Act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.