Louisiana House Bill HB290

Louisiana 2014 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/14
• Refer: 3/10/14

Caption

(Constitutional Amendment) Directs the Dept. of Health and Hospitals to offer health insurance with essential health benefits to every legal resident of La. whose income is at or below 138% of the federal poverty level, and to allow the legislature to determine whether to continue the program when federal funding falls below 90% of the total program funding (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)

Impact

The implications of HB 290 are significant, as it aims not only to expand healthcare access to low-income residents but also requires the legislature to annually appropriate funds necessary for the program's continuation. Importantly, the bill stipulates that if federal funding falls below 90% of the total cost of the program, the legislature will have the discretion to decide whether to continue offering such health insurance. This creates a mechanism that allows state officials to evaluate the feasibility of the program based on federal funding dynamics.

Summary

House Bill 290 is a proposed constitutional amendment directed at the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals. It mandates the administration of a state program that provides access to health insurance with essential health benefits to every legal resident of Louisiana whose income is at or below 138% of the federal poverty level, beginning January 1, 2015. This amendment is designed to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to healthcare services that meet federal guidelines. It outlines the requirements for eligibility and emphasizes the state's responsibility to make necessary amendments or applications to utilize available federal funding for these services.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 290 appears to be mixed. Supporters highlight its potential to ensure that low-income populations receive essential healthcare services and view it as a step forward in public health policy. Opponents, however, may express concerns about the reliance on federal funding and the implications of allowing the legislature to make decisions regarding the program's viability based on funding stability. This aspect raises questions about the sustainability of healthcare access for marginalized communities in the event of funding crises.

Contention

The bill brings to the forefront contentious issues concerning healthcare access, state versus federal authority, and the sustainability of public health funding. Critics may argue that such a dependency on federal resources could jeopardize local healthcare initiatives and lead to abrupt program changes based on external financial conditions. Furthermore, the criteria for determining eligibility and the limitations placed on program continuation based on federal funding levels could result in uncertainties for residents who rely on these essential services.