Bill > HB1002

This bill establishes the Texas Health Insurance Exchange, a state-run marketplace for individuals and small businesses to purchase qualified health plans, in accordance with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). The Exchange will be governed by a seven-member board of directors appointed by the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and Speaker of the House, with specific expertise requirements. It will define terms like "qualified health plan" and "qualified individual," and outline the powers and duties of the Exchange, including certifying health plans, providing consumer information, and cooperating with state and federal agencies. The bill also addresses the definition of a "small employer," initially setting the threshold at 50 employees and later amending it to 100 employees effective January 1, 2016. It details the operational aspects, financial integrity, and reporting requirements of the Exchange, and includes provisions for a "level playing field" to ensure fair competition between plans offered inside and outside the Exchange. The bill also sets forth the timeline for appointments, rule adoption, and initial operations, and specifies the conditions for its effective date.