The bill, H.B. No. 2677, aims to enhance Medicaid coverage and reimbursement for obesity treatment and diabetes prevention services in Texas. It introduces two new sections to the Human Resources Code: Section 32.02461, which outlines reimbursement for treating obesity, and Section 32.02462, which addresses reimbursement for diabetes prevention program services. Under Section 32.02461, the bill defines key terms such as "anti-obesity medication," "intensive health behavioral and lifestyle treatment," and "metabolic and bariatric surgery." It mandates that the Health and Human Services Commission ensure reimbursement for these services, including intensive treatment and surgery, while establishing medical necessity criteria for anti-obesity medications that align with FDA approvals.

Additionally, Section 32.02462 stipulates that reimbursement must be provided to recognized diabetes prevention program suppliers for services rendered to eligible recipients. The bill also includes provisions for state agencies to seek necessary federal waivers before implementing certain provisions and requires the Health and Human Services Commission to notify recipients about the availability of obesity treatment options once the new section is implemented. The act is set to take effect immediately upon receiving a two-thirds vote from both houses or on September 1, 2025, if that threshold is not met.

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