H.B. No. 4643 amends the Government Code to enhance access to criminal history record information for the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and its associated agencies regarding providers and applicants under Medicaid and other public benefits programs. The bill modifies the heading of Section 411.1143 to clarify that it pertains to agencies administering or operating medical assistance and other public benefits programs. It also updates the language in Subsections (a) and (a-1) to broaden the scope of individuals whose criminal history can be accessed, including those with significant ownership interests, managing employees, and specific roles within the provider organization.

Additionally, the bill introduces new definitions for terms such as "managing employee," "ownership interest," and "provider," which clarify the roles and responsibilities of individuals involved in the delivery of health care services under these programs. The changes aim to ensure that the HHSC can effectively vet providers and applicants to maintain the integrity of public benefits programs. 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.

Statutes affected:
House Committee Report: Government Code 411.1143 (Government Code 411)
Engrossed: Government Code 411.1143 (Government Code 411)
Senate Committee Report: Government Code 411.1143 (Government Code 411)
Enrolled: Government Code 411.1143 (Government Code 411)