Wyoming House Bill HJ0012

Wyoming 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/27/23
• Report Pass: 1/30/23
• Failed: 2/6/23

Caption

Medicaid Federal Medical Assistance Percentage-increase.

Impact

The resolution emphasizes the disparities in healthcare access for Wyoming residents, particularly the senior population, which is one of the fastest-growing demographics in the state. It highlights that a higher FMAP could provide more adequate funding for medical assistance, addressing the challenges posed by high medical costs and the declining number of healthcare providers in the state. The bill argues that equitable reimbursement would help ensure that needy Medicaid recipients receive essential healthcare services.

Summary

House Joint Resolution HJ0012 requests Congress to increase Wyoming's Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP). The FMAP determines the federal share of Medicaid expenditures for states, calculated based on a three-year average of state and national per capita personal incomes. Notably, Wyoming's current FMAP is at the minimum rate of 50%, which has significant implications for healthcare access and funding in the state, particularly for vulnerable populations.

Contention

While the resolution is focused on requesting an increase in FMAP, it also refers to the need for reviewing current federal laws and regulations. This could lead to additional considerations for determining FMAP rates, which include median income and cost-of-living adjustments. The approach indicates a recognition that rural healthcare needs differ from those of urban areas and that the existing federal formulas may not adequately account for such differences.