Access to criminal history record information that relates to providers and provider applicants under Medicaid and other public benefits programs administered by the Health and Human Services Commission

Texas House Bill 4643, enacted in 2025, grants the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and its Office of Inspector General the authority to access criminal history records of individuals and entities involved with Medicaid and other public benefits programs. This includes current and prospective providers, as well as individuals with significant ownership interests in these providers. The bill aims to enhance the integrity and safety of public benefits programs by ensuring that those involved do not have disqualifying criminal histories. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/TX/text/HB4643/2025?utm_source=openai))

The bill received broad bipartisan support, passing the House with 133 votes in favor and 1 against, and the Senate unanimously. The Legislative Budget Board noted no significant fiscal impact, suggesting that HHSC could implement the bill using existing resources. ([legiscan.com](https://legiscan.com/TX/supplement/HB4643/id/569938?utm_source=openai)) This indicates a consensus on the importance of safeguarding public benefits programs from potential fraud or abuse.

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