Houston Daily

Governor Greg Abbott has named Stephanie Muth as the new Executive Commissioner for Texas Health and Human Services (HHS), effective January 3, 2026. She will take over following the retirement of the current HHS Commissioner, with her term set to expire on February 1, 2027.

Muth brings more than 25 years of experience in Texas state government and has held multiple senior executive roles at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Her previous positions include Chief of Staff to the Executive Commissioner, State Medicaid Director, Deputy Executive Commissioner for the Transformation Division, Deputy Executive Commissioner for the Office of Social Services, and Associate Commissioner for Consumer and External Affairs.

Governor Abbott said, "Stephanie Muth is a dedicated public servant who brings over 25 years of experience working in state government and at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission. Having served exceptionally as Commissioner of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Stephanie will continue to execute the critical mission of HHSC and ensure the long-term success​ of the state's essential health programs. I am confident that Stephanie will lead the Commission with integrity and ensure Texans receive the high-quality care and support they need to thrive."

Muth is currently principal of Stephanie Muth Consulting and serves as a senior fellow with Meadow’s Mental Health Policy Institute. She previously led the Department of Family and Protective Services as commissioner. Over her career in Texas government—including work in both legislative and executive branches—she played a key role in modernizing eligibility systems and overseeing major reorganizations within health services programs. As State Medicaid Director, she managed policy and operations for healthcare services reaching more than four million Texans.

Muth holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from the University of Florida and a Master of Public Affairs from The University of Texas at Austin’s LBJ School of Public Affairs.