General · Texas behavioral health news
Texas lawmakers hold hearing on ‘epidemic' of social services fraud as state increases scrutiny - KERA News
Texas HHSC (Google News) · April 9, 2026
In plain language
Texas lawmakers recently held a public hearing to discuss ways to stop fraud in state programs like Medicaid and child care services. State officials are increasing background checks for healthcare providers and monitoring insurance companies more closely to ensure they follow staffing rules. Some residents also shared stories about people with disabilities not receiving the services they were promised. While the state is adding tech tools to track visits and attendance, some lawmakers expressed concern that focusing on fraud might distract from the need for more mental health resources.
AI-generated summary of the source article. Not medical advice.
Key takeaways
- Texas is increasing background checks for high-risk Medicaid providers to prevent fraud and waste.
- The Office of Inspector General found that some Medicaid insurance companies are understaffed for fraud investigations.
- A new attendance rule requires parents to check children both in and out of subsidized child care daily.
- State officials are reviewing policies for services like non-medical transport and behavioral therapy for possible fraud.
- Texas currently has one of the lowest Medicaid error rates in the country according to state lawmakers.
- More than 50,000 Texas families are currently waiting for Medicaid home and community-based services.
Texas lawmakers hold hearing on ‘epidemic' of social services fraud as state increases scrutiny KERA News
Need to talk to someone in Texas? Browse Texas-licensed telehealth therapists. In crisis, call or text 988.