All PlansAdministrativeMedium impact
HHSC LTCR SEMARC Rules Effective July 30
Texas Medicaid·TX · Geriatrics·General
Effective date
Jul 30, 2026
We identified it
Jul 31, 2026
Summary
Effective July 30, 2026, long-term care providers in Texas must comply with new SEMARC (Search Engine for Multi-Agency Reportable Conduct) search requirements across multiple care settings including nursing facilities, assisted living facilities, and home and community-based services. This policy impacts provider credentialing and background check processes across affected facility types.
Action Required
By July 30, 2026: All providers operating long-term care facilities and home and community-based services in Texas must implement SEMARC search protocols as required by the updated Texas Administrative Code chapters (550, 553, 554, 555, 556, 557, 559, 560, 565, 566). Administrative staff and compliance teams must review Provider Letter 2026-10 for specific provider responsibilities and update credentialing procedures, background check workflows, and staff onboarding processes to include SEMARC searches. Verify that all facility administrators, nurses, aides, and relevant staff complete required searches before hire date or license renewal. Failure to comply with SEMARC requirements may result in license denial, suspension, or revocation.