Relating to the expansion of eligibility for Medicaid to certain individuals under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

HB 72 would require Texas to expand Medicaid eligibility to all individuals who qualify under the federal Affordable Care Act, using available federal matching funds. This law directly affects Texans who currently fall in the Medicaid coverage gap and the state health agency responsible for administering the program. Key provisions mandate the state to provide medical assistance to all qualifying applicants starting January 1, 2026, and require annual reports tracking impacts on uninsured rates, state/hospital costs, and charity care. The bill's implementation depends on voter approval of a related constitutional amendment.