House Bill No. 3735 aims to enhance health benefit plan coverage for prenatal care, childbirth, and postnatal care by amending the Insurance Code. The bill introduces a new Subchapter D under Chapter 1366, which defines "birthing center" and outlines the applicability of the subchapter to various health benefit plans, including individual and group insurance policies, hospital service contracts, and health maintenance organizations. It specifies that the subchapter applies to basic coverage plans and health benefits provided by local government entities and risk pools.

The bill mandates that health benefit plans offering maternity benefits must cover prenatal care, childbirth, and postnatal care in hospitals, birthing centers, or home settings. This required coverage includes services provided by licensed nurse midwives, prenatal visits, necessary medical tests, childbirth services, prescription drugs related to childbirth, and essential newborn care such as screenings and vaccinations. The provisions of this subchapter will take effect for plans delivered or renewed on or after January 1, 2026, with the overall act becoming effective on September 1, 2025.

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