The bill, S.B. No. 1257, introduces Chapter 1373 to the Texas Insurance Code, which mandates health benefit plans to cover adverse effects and reversals related to gender transition procedures. It defines "gender transition" and "gender transition procedure or treatment," and specifies that health benefit plans providing coverage for gender transition must also cover all possible adverse consequences, necessary testing, and any procedures required to manage or reverse the effects of such treatments. Additionally, the bill ensures that coverage is available to enrollees who have previously undergone gender transition procedures, regardless of their enrollment status at the time of treatment.

The bill outlines the applicability of this coverage to various health benefit plans, including those provided by insurance companies, health maintenance organizations, and Medicaid programs, while excluding self-funded plans as defined by federal law. It also stipulates that the provisions will only apply to plans delivered or renewed after January 1, 2026, and allows state agencies to delay implementation if federal waivers are needed. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

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