Directs DHH to submit a Section 1115 demonstration waiver application in order to utilize certain funding for the Medicaid program (EN INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Impact
If granted, the waiver would enable the state to draw down federal matching funds for healthcare services that are currently funded by state and local resources. This mechanism would allow Louisiana to reinvest unencumbered state funds into the Medicaid program, which is essential given the substantial decrease in the federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) from approximately 72% to around 63%. The shift aims to secure better financial footing for the state's largest programmatic expenditure, thereby potentially improving access to healthcare services for residents.
Summary
HCR122 is a House Concurrent Resolution that directs the Department of Health and Hospitals in Louisiana to apply for a Section 1115 Medicaid demonstration waiver. This waiver would allow the state to utilize certain funding methods to receive federal matching funds for various health programs, ultimately supporting the Medicaid program amid a significant budget deficit projected at approximately $1.3 billion for the state fiscal year 2014. The bill aims to alleviate some of the financial pressure on Louisiana's healthcare system by seeking federal assistance that would help stabilize the Medicaid program's funding.
Sentiment
Sentiment surrounding HCR122 appears to be largely supportive, as it addresses critical fiscal challenges within the state's Medicaid program. Lawmakers recognize the importance of seeking additional funding sources to maintain and improve healthcare provision. However, the necessity of such a bill also reflects underlying tensions regarding state budgetary pressures and the dependency on federal funding, indicating a degree of urgency in the discussions and votes surrounding the resolution.
Contention
While there may not be significant points of contention highlighted in the discussions, some concerns could arise regarding the effectiveness of federal waivers in actually alleviating budgetary issues in the long term. Legislators could debate the implications of relying on federal matching funds and whether this might lead to potential future challenges in Medicaid management. The deadline specified in the resolution for the waiver application also adds a layer of accountability, requiring the Department to report any delays, which could be subject to scrutiny.
Authorizes and directs the secretary of the Department of Health and Hospitals to submit a Section 1115 Medicaid demonstration waiver to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Directs the Department of Health and Hospitals to submit a Section 1115 Medicaid demonstration waiver to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services designed to protect Medicaid and uninsured services being delivered and complement existing upper payment limit funding programs.
Directs the Department of Health and Hospitals to submit a request to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to extend Louisiana's Section 1115a demonstration waiver for the Greater New Orleans Community Health Connection and authorizes the governor and the secretary of the department to identify a source or sources for matching of non-federal funds required under the extended waiver.
Requesting The Department Of Human Services To File A Request With The Centers For Medicare And Medicaid Services To Amend The State's Existing Section 1115 Demonstration Program To Implement A Housing And Health Opportunities Demonstration Program To Enable Direct Housing Costs For Medicaid Recipients To Be Covered By The Federal Financial Participation For Medicaid.
Requesting The Department Of Human Services To File A Request With The Centers For Medicare And Medicaid Services To Amend The State's Existing Section 1115 Demonstration Program To Implement A Housing And Health Opportunities Demonstration Program To Enable Direct Housing Costs For Medicaid Recipients To Be Covered By The Federal Financial Participation For Medicaid.
JOINT RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE MEDICAID SECTION 1115 DEMONSTRATION WAIVER REQUESTS AND RENEWALS -- RHODE ISLAND MEDICAID REFORM ACT OF 2008 (Joint resolution to approve an amendment to the Medicaid section 1115 demonstration waiver requests and renewals.)
JOINT RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE MEDICAID SECTION 1115 DEMONSTRATION WAIVER REQUESTS AND RENEWALS -- RHODE ISLAND MEDICAID REFORM ACT OF 2008 (Joint resolution to approve an amendment to the Medicaid section 1115 demonstration waiver requests and renewals.)
Urges and requests DHH to study the health impacts and fiscal benefits to La. of implementing a Medicaid 1115 demonstration waiver to expand services to people living with HIV and to report study results to certain legislative committees
To Amend The Medicaid Fraud Act And The Medicaid Fraud False Claims Act; And To Update Language And Definitions To Reflect Changes Within The Healthcare System;.
Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.
Requires Medicaid reimbursement for covered behavioral health services provided by local education agency to student who is eligible Medicaid beneficiary.
Provides for presumptive eligibility for home and community-based services and services provided through program of all-inclusive care for the elderly under Medicaid.