(Constitutional Amendment) Requires the state to provide to a legal resident employed for the previous calendar year for at least 1,000 hours and whose income is below 100% of the federal poverty level the opportunity to participate in a state program providing health insurance with essential benefits (OR INCREASE GF EX See Note)
Impact
The implementation of HB 240 would potentially expand access to healthcare for low-income residents in Louisiana, addressing a significant gap in health coverage for those who are currently underserved. The bill reflects an effort by the state to align with federal healthcare standards, ensuring that low-income individuals have access to necessary medical services. By verifying qualifications annually, the state would maintain oversight of the program and ensure that it serves only those who meet the specified criteria.
Summary
House Bill 240 proposes a constitutional amendment to ensure that every legal resident of Louisiana who has been employed for at least 1,000 hours in the previous year and whose income falls below 100% of the federal poverty level is given the opportunity to participate in a state health insurance program. This program aims to provide essential health benefits in accordance with federal law. If enacted, the bill would amend Article I of the Louisiana Constitution, adding a provision specifically addressing health insurance access for eligible residents.
Sentiment
Responses to HB 240's proposal have been mixed, reflecting a division among lawmakers and constituents. Supporters argue that the bill is a necessary step toward providing equitable healthcare access and improving public health outcomes in the state. They express concern for the over one million Louisianans living below the federal poverty line who would benefit from this initiative. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the potential fiscal implications of expanding state-funded health programs and question the sustainability of such benefits in the long term.
Contention
Notable points of contention include debates over the financial feasibility of the program given Louisiana's existing budget constraints, and the broader implications of expanding state healthcare programs in an environment where there are significant calls for budget cuts across various sectors. Proponents assure that increased access to healthcare could lead to long-term savings by reducing emergency care costs, while detractors warn that this could set a precedent for additional spending demands without guaranteed funding sources.
Constitutional amendment to require the state to provide the opportunity to a legal resident, employed for the previous calendar year for at least one thousand hours, and whose income is below one hundred percent of the federal poverty level to participate in a state program that provides health insurance with essential benefits. (2/3-CA13s1(A))
Constitutional amendment to direct DHH to offer health insurance with essential health benefits to every legal resident of Louisiana whose income is at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. (2/3 - CA13s1(A)) (OR GF EX See Note)
(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)
Constitutional amendment to direct the Department of Health and Hospitals to offer health insurance with essential health benefits to every legal resident of Louisiana 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. (2/3-CA13s1(A)) (OR DECREASE GF EX See Note)
Requires the Department of Health and Hospitals provide health care coverage with essential health benefits to every legal Louisiana resident whose household income is at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. (8/1/15) (OR INCREASE SD EX See Note)
To provide for the cost share of certain insurance premiums for programs sponsored by the state's Office of Group Benefits (OR INCREASE SG EX See Note)