HB 709 amends the Texas Insurance Code to require group health plans to provide coverage for serious emotional disturbances in children, as defined by specific diagnostic and functional criteria. It sets minimum treatment coverage standards, prohibits lifetime limits on coverage, and mandates a study to assess the impact of these requirements on insurance costs. The findings of this study will be reported by December 1, 2026. The law applies to health plans renewed on or after January 1, 2026, and takes effect on September 1, 2025​.