SRC-JJJ H.B. 1097 76(R)   BILL ANALYSIS


Senate Research Center   H.B. 1097
76R12069 DB-FBy: Coleman (Madla)
Economic Development
5/13/1999
Engrossed


DIGEST 

The Texas Health Insurance Risk Pool (pool) was established by the 71st
Texas Legislature to provide medically uninsurable Texans with access to
quality health care.  There are several ways Texas residents may become
eligible for coverage through the pool.  H.B. 1097 would establish
provisions regarding application requirements for participation in the
Texas Health Insurance Risk Pool. 

PURPOSE

As proposed, H.B. 1097 establishes provisions regarding application
requirements for participation in the Texas Health Insurance Risk Pool. 

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

This bill does not grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state
officer, institution, or agency. 

SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS

SECTION 1.  Amends Section 10(a), Article 3.77, Insurance Code, to require
any individual person who is and continues to be a resident of Texas and a
citizen of the United States to be eligible for coverage from the Texas
Health Insurance Risk Pool (pool) if the individual  provides to the pool
certain information and documentation regarding rejection or refusal to
issue substantially similar individual insurance for health reasons or
existing medical conditions.  Deletes text regarding the need for rejection
from two insurers, the need to supply sufficient evidence, and not having
applied for health insurance coverage. 

SECTION 2.  Effective date: September 1, 1999.
  Makes application of this Act prospective.

SECTION 3.  Emergency clause.