Us Congress House Bill HB8107

Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/23/24
• Refer: 4/23/24
• Refer: 4/26/24
• Report Pass: 9/18/24

Caption

Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-in Programs Act of 2024

Impact

The proposed changes in HB 8107 could significantly alter the landscape of Medicaid eligibility for adults with disabilities. By abolishing the upper age limit, the bill will likely increase the number of working individuals with disabilities who have access to Medicaid services. This means more adults can work without the fear of losing their Medicaid coverage, hence promoting greater economic participation and reducing dependency on other forms of public assistance.

Summary

House Bill 8107, known as the Ensuring Access to Medicaid Buy-in Programs Act of 2024, aims to amend title XIX of the Social Security Act by removing age restrictions on Medicaid eligibility for working adults with disabilities. The cornerstone of this bill is its focus on enabling individuals with disabilities to retain access to healthcare funding without being constrained by age limitations, particularly those under 65 years old. This legislative effort seeks to foster independence and employment opportunities for these individuals, allowing them to participate in the workforce while having a safety net of healthcare coverage.

Contention

Although the intent of HB 8107 is largely seen as positive by advocates for disabilities, there may be concerns voiced by opposition groups regarding fiscal implications. Questions regarding the potential increased burden on state healthcare programs and the broader economic impact of expanding Medicaid eligibility will be key points of discussion. Some lawmakers may argue about the sustainability of such amendments in the long term, focusing on costs associated with an expanded Medicaid population and the effects on state budgets.