The bill, H.B. No. 2477, aims to mandate coverage for doula services under various group benefit plans for governmental employees and retirees in Texas. It introduces new sections to the Insurance Code, specifically Sections 1551.232, 1575.175, 1579.113, and 1601.112, which define "doula services" as nonmedical childbirth education, coaching, and support services provided during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period. Each section stipulates that health benefit plans and basic plans under the group program must provide coverage for these services.

The provisions of the bill will take effect on September 1, 2025, and will apply only to plan years commencing on or after January 1, 2026. This timeline allows for the necessary adjustments to be made by the relevant insurance providers to comply with the new coverage requirements.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: ()