Children's Health Coverage Bills Have Broad Support from Advocates Across the State

CS HB 342 by Representative Cortez would provide children 6 months of uninterrupted coverage at a time with one ‘double check’ for eligibility at the 6-month mark. Texas has the highest rate and number of uninsured children in the country — and the problem is getting worse. More consistent coverage means kids can get check-ups, therapies, and treatment for health conditions, and build a relationship with a health provider to track growth and development. In 2014, Texas rolled back eligibility rules for Medicaid. Now Texas kids have 6-month continuous coverage followed by month-to-month coverage for the second six months of each year. With extra paperwork and income checks at months 5, 6, 7, and 8, the combined effect of this undue administrative burden can cause eligible children to lose their Medicaid coverage.