South Dakota Senate Bill SJR501

South Dakota 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/9/24
• Report Pass: 1/24/24
• Engrossed: 1/25/24
• Refer: 1/29/24
• Report Pass: 2/26/24
• Enrolled: 2/27/24
• Passed: 3/4/24

Caption

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election, an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, authorizing the state to impose work requirements on certain individuals who are eligible for expanded Medicaid.

Impact

The introduction of SJR501 would have significant impacts on state law, specifically concerning Medicaid eligibility and requirements. By adding potential work conditions for individuals receiving Medicaid, the law could affect the level of healthcare access for low-income citizens. Proponents argue that work requirements could encourage self-sufficiency and reduce dependency on government assistance. However, the measure also raises concerns regarding the potential exclusion of individuals who may be unable to meet work requirements due to various circumstances, including health issues, caregiving responsibilities, or other barriers to employment.

Summary

Senate Joint Resolution 501 (SJR501) proposes an amendment to the South Dakota Constitution that would allow the state to impose work requirements on individuals eligible for expanded Medicaid. The amendment seeks to ensure that persons aged 18 to 64, who fall within 133% of the federal poverty level plus an additional 5%, receive necessary Medicaid benefits, with the provision that work requirements may apply to those not diagnosed with disabilities. The resolution aims to align state Medicaid eligibility with federal laws, as of January 1, 2021, thus expanding access to healthcare services for low-income individuals.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SJR501 is notably mixed. Supporters claim that this resolution is a positive step towards ensuring that those who can work do so, thereby promoting personal responsibility. They argue that by incentivizing work, the state can enhance the welfare system and potentially reduce the financial burden on taxpayer-funded programs. Conversely, opponents view it as an unnecessary hurdle for vulnerable populations, highlighting that many within this demographic already face limitations that prevent them from working. Critics assert that imposing work requirements could effectively disenfranchise those in need of assistance, particularly those with physical or mental health challenges.

Contention

Debate surrounding SJR501 emphasizes the fundamental issue of state intervention in personal circumstances. Its potential to introduce work requirements has generated concern about how such conditions might disproportionately affect specific groups, including the elderly, disabled individuals, and single parents. This contention is amplified by fears that it could inadvertently complicate Medicaid enrollment processes, leading to decreased access to vital healthcare services for many who qualify. As legislators discuss this resolution, they must navigate balancing support for work incentives against the inherent risk of alienating individuals who depend on essential medical coverage.