Texas SB855 allows certain medical consenters to assume financial responsibility for out-of-network medical care for foster children.

SB855 amends the Texas Family Code to allow medical consenters, other than the department, to assume financial responsibility for out-of-network medical care provided to foster children. This includes behavioral health services. The department is exempt from liability for such care. The bill also mandates that Medicaid managed care organizations cannot prevent or discourage access to such care. A STAR Health program managed care contract must require compliance with this provision. The act takes effect September 1, 2025.

Texas SB855 allows certain medical consenters to assume financial responsibility for out-of-network medical care for foster children.

SB855 amends the Texas Family Code to allow medical consenters, other than the department, to assume financial responsibility for out-of-network medical care provided to foster children. This includes behavioral health services. The department is exempt from liability for such care. The bill also mandates that Medicaid managed care organizations cannot prevent or discourage access to such care. A STAR Health program managed care contract must require compliance with this provision. The act takes effect September 1, 2025.