Enrolled Bill Summary

            House Bill 714 amends provisions of the Health and Safety Code, the Human Resources Code, and the Insurance Code to require certain birthing facilities in counties with a population of 50,000 or more to offer hearing screenings for newborns. The Texas Department of Health is required to approve program protocols and ensure that certain intervention services are available. The act includes provisions relating to certification of screening programs, information concerning screening results, technical and information systems assistance to be provided by the department, confidentiality of information and immunity from liability. The act does not apply to a facility operated by a midwife.

            House Bill 714 requires a health benefit plan that provides benefits for a family member to provide coverage for the screening test for hearing loss and necessary diagnostic follow-up care and includes related requirements. The screening test and follow-up for hearing loss are also required for a child younger than 30 days who receives Medicaid.