BILL ANALYSIS

H.B. 1990

By: Lambert

Insurance

Committee Report (Unamended)

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

It has been noted that the definition of licensed psychological associates is outdated because rules adopted by the Texas State Board of Examiners of Psychologists allow them to practice independent of psychologist supervision. H.B. 1990 seeks to address this issue by updating the definition of “psychological associate” for purposes of access to these practitioners under certain insurance plans.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE IMPACT

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly create a criminal offense, increase the punishment for an existing criminal offense or category of offenses, or change the eligibility of a person for community supervision, parole, or mandatory supervision.

RULEMAKING AUTHORITY

It is the committee's opinion that this bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, department, agency, or institution.

ANALYSIS

H.B. 1990 amends the Insurance Code to remove the specification that a psychological associate practices solely under a licensed psychologist's supervision for purposes of statutory provisions relating to access to certain practitioners and facilities under certain health benefit plans. The bill applies only to an insurance policy delivered, issued for delivery, or renewed on or after January 1, 2020.

EFFECTIVE DATE

September 1, 2019.