Texas HB709 mandates insurance coverage for serious emotional disturbance of a child in group health benefit plans.

Texas HB709 amends the Insurance Code to require group health benefit plans to cover serious emotional disturbance of a child, defined as a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder that substantially impairs a child's functioning. The coverage must include up to 45 days of inpatient treatment and 60 outpatient visits annually, without lifetime limits, and must match the terms for physical illness. The bill also mandates a study on the impact of this coverage on plan costs, with a report due by December 2026.

Texas HB709 mandates insurance coverage for serious emotional disturbance of a child in group health benefit plans.

Texas HB709 amends the Insurance Code to require group health benefit plans to cover serious emotional disturbance of a child, defined as a diagnosable mental, behavioral, or emotional disorder that substantially impairs a child's functioning. The coverage must include up to 45 days of inpatient treatment and 60 outpatient visits annually, without lifetime limits, and must match the terms for physical illness. The bill also mandates a study on the impact of this coverage on plan costs, with a report due by December 2026.