The eligibility of members of the State Board of Education and their dependents to participate in the state employees group benefits program

Texas House Bill 3254, effective September 1, 2025, allows members of the State Board of Education (SBOE) and their dependents to join the state employees group benefits program. While they can participate, they must cover the full cost of their premiums, as the state will not contribute to these expenses.

Supporters of HB 3254 argue that it provides SBOE members with access to comprehensive health benefits, aligning their benefits with other state employees and potentially attracting more qualified individuals to serve on the board.

Critics of HB 3254 contend that allowing SBOE members to participate in the state benefits program, even without state contributions, could set a precedent for other part-time officials seeking similar privileges, potentially leading to increased administrative costs and complexities.