H.B. No. 2896 introduces a new chapter, Chapter 1702, to the Texas Insurance Code, which mandates that certain insurance entities provide coverage for the disposition of embryonic and fetal tissue remains with a post-fertilization age of 20 weeks or more. Specifically, the bill requires these entities to cover up to $7,500 for various methods of disposition, including interment, cremation, incineration followed by interment, and steam disinfection followed by interment. The bill applies to a wide range of insurance providers, including those offering health benefit plans, life insurance, and group benefit plans.

The provisions of this chapter will only apply to insurance policies and contracts that are delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after January 1, 2026. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025. This legislation aims to ensure that families have financial support for the respectful disposition of fetal remains, reflecting a growing recognition of the emotional and ethical considerations surrounding this issue.

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