Rep. Erin Zwiener Files Medicaid On Ramp For Young Adults

Austin, TX –State Representative Erin Zwiener introduced a bill that would give young Texans, up to age 26, to qualify for Medicaid. House Bill 3591 would shrink the number of uninsured Texans and give young Texans coverage.

“One of the most popular provisions of the federal Affordable Care Act was allowing young adults to stay on their parents’ insurance until age 26,” said Rep. Zwiener. “But not all young Texans come from insured families. This bill will give those young people the same on ramp to adulthood while they’re finding their place in the job market.”

HB 3591 is limited to young Texans who otherwise meet the federal guidelines for Medicaid coverage. Texas leads the nation with the highest rate of uninsured. Currently 450,881 Texans ages 19-26 are living without healthcare coverage, despite being one of the most affordable groups to insure.

“Many of the jobs that are available to young Texans don’t offer benefits,” said Rep. Zwiener. “With my bill we can make sure more Texans have the healthcare coverage they need.”

Providing preventive care will reduce future healthcare costs. This bill will be particularly important for former at risk youth, including former foster care children.