Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Stephanie Muth as the next Executive Commissioner of Texas Health and Human Services (HHS). Muth will assume her new role on January 3, 2026, following the retirement of the current commissioner. Her term is set to expire on February 1, 2027.
Muth has a long history with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), having held several senior executive positions. These include Chief of Staff to the Executive Commissioner, State Medicaid Director, Deputy Executive Commissioner for both the Transformation Division and Office of Social Services, and Associate Commissioner for Consumer and External Affairs.
“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,” said Governor Abbott. “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 based in Austin and focuses on health and human services policy, design, and operations. She leads her own consulting firm, Stephanie Muth Consulting, and serves as a senior fellow at Meadow’s Mental Health Policy Institute. Her previous roles include serving as Commissioner of the Department of Family and Protective Services.
Throughout her career in Texas state government spanning more than 25 years, including time in both legislative and executive branches, Muth has led efforts to modernize eligibility systems for social services and directed major reorganizations within health programs. As State Medicaid Director, she oversaw policy and operations for healthcare services provided to over 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.
