Lt. Gov. Patrick: Statement on Surprise Billing Rules



 

AUSTIN – Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick issued this statement today following news reports that the Texas Medical Board may be attempting to weaken the surprise billing legislation passed in the 2019 Legislative Session:

“After passing the strongest “surprise billing” protections in the nation, I am not happy to learn that attempts may be being made at the Texas Medical Board to create a loophole to undermine this important law. Senators are not happy either. Senate Bill 1264, which passed 29-2 in the Senate and passed with strong bi-partisan support in the House, is designed to protect Texans from “surprise billing” for out-of-network care. Members of the Texas Medical Board should be aware that the Texas Senate approves all appointments to the TMB. I believe it is unlikely the votes would be there to confirm new interim appointments or approve the reappointment of any member who votes to circumvent the intent of clearly written legislation.”