Relating to the enrollment period for newborns under certain health benefit plans.

SB 896 extends the enrollment period for newborns under employer-sponsored health benefit plans in Texas, changing the deadline from 32 days to 61 days after birth. The bill requires health plans to provide coverage until the 61st day unless the plan receives birth notice and any required additional premium by the 60th day. It prohibits plans from excluding initial newborn coverage before day 61, coverage for congenital defects, or costs for required newborn screening tests. This applies to all health benefit plans offering maternity or accident/health coverage for newborns, directly affecting newborns, their parents, and employer health insurance providers. The law became effective September 1, 2025, after being signed by the Governor.