Mississippi House Bill HB97

Mississippi 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/4/22
• Refer: 1/4/22
• Failed: 2/1/22

Caption

Medicaid; require Governor and Division of Medicaid to negotiate to obtain federal waiver to expand Medicaid coverage.

Impact

If enacted, HB 97 is poised to significantly alter the landscape of healthcare in Mississippi by allowing for an increase in Medicaid qualifications and coverage options. Specifically, it may introduce two Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) for newly eligible adults and establish a Mississippi Healthy Living Account to facilitate health savings among low-income participants. The amendment of existing state laws to align with this expansion would update Section 43-13-115 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, thereby expanding the pool of Medicaid recipients.

Summary

House Bill 97 aims to expand Medicaid coverage in Mississippi by directing the Governor and the Division of Medicaid to negotiate a federal waiver under Section 1115 of the Social Security Act. The bill specifies that the plan will provide private market-based health coverage to adults with incomes up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). This initiative primarily targets individuals who are in working families yet lack affordable insurance options, effectively seeking to bridge a critical gap in health coverage for vulnerable populations.

Contention

The discussion surrounding HB 97 could involve notable contention regarding cost-sharing mechanisms and the overall burden on the state's budget. While proponents argue that improved health coverage will alleviate financial pressures on hospitals and increase access to care for low-income families, opponents may raise concerns about long-term sustainability and potential implications for state funding. Additionally, the requirement for cost-sharing based on income levels has been a focal point for debate, particularly regarding its fairness and accessibility for poorer demographics.