HB 6297

Abstract

Amends the Children's Health Insurance Program Act. Provides that for purposes of the "FamilyCare" program under the Act, a caretaker relative, including a pregnant woman or her spouse if living together, who is 19 years of age or older qualifies for medical assistance if certain conditions are met, including conditions relating to (i) disenrollment for Medicaid or benefits under the Children's Health Insurance Program Act or the Covering ALL KIDS Health Insurance Act or (ii) the availability of affordable health insurance to the individual. Provides that for the purpose of determining eligibility under these provisions, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services shall disregard income in an amount equal to the difference between 133% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level Guidelines for the appropriate family size. Sets forth provisions concerning the commencement of eligibility. Requires that eligibility be reviewed annually. Provides for monthly premiums to be paid by caretaker relatives, based on family income. Provides for re-enrollment following termination of an individual's coverage under the program. Provides that the provisions of the amendatory Act are subject to appropriation. Provides that neither the Governor nor any agency or agency head under the jurisdiction of the Governor has any rulemaking authority under the amendatory Act, but that the Governor may suggest rules by filing them with the General Assembly and requesting that the General Assembly authorize such rulemaking by law, enact the suggested rules into law, or take other appropriate action in the General Assembly's discretion.