H.B. No. 76 aims to implement an express lane option under Medicaid and the Child Health Plan Program in Texas. The bill amends Section 62.1011 of the Health and Safety Code to require the commission to verify income for applicants unless their reported household income exceeds the established eligibility level. It introduces a new Section 62.1012, which allows the commission to evaluate data from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to determine a child's eligibility for coverage under the Child Health Plan Program. The bill also mandates that a new case be opened to ensure timely benefits for children under SNAP and outlines the process for notifying parents and obtaining consent for enrollment.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 32.026(e) of the Human Resources Code to allow recertification reviews for medical assistance to be conducted via telephone or mail, unless a personal interview is deemed necessary. It introduces Section 32.026102, which mirrors the express lane option for medical assistance benefits, allowing the commission to use SNAP data for eligibility determinations. The bill emphasizes the importance of timely communication and consent from parents or guardians in the enrollment process. If federal waivers are needed for implementation, the state agency may delay the provisions until such waivers are granted. The act is set to take effect 91 days after the legislative session concludes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Health and Safety Code 62.1011, Human Resources Code 32.026 (Human Resources Code 32, Health and Safety Code 62)