Tennessee Senate Bill SB1414

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/1/23

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 71, Chapter 5, relative to TennCare.

Impact

The key impact of SB1414 is its establishment of a temporary assistance program under TennCare that allows individuals who do not qualify for existing medical assistance programs to receive help for a limited time. The program is designed to be funded primarily through federal sources, maintaining a 90% federal and 10% state fund ratio, thereby aiming to reduce the fiscal burden on the state while providing necessary healthcare access to vulnerable populations. This initiative is seen as a means to fill gaps in coverage for low-income families who may exceed eligibility thresholds for other programs but still lack sufficient resources to secure healthcare.

Summary

Senate Bill 1414 seeks to amend Tennessee's existing healthcare programs by introducing a temporary TennCare benefits program targeted at individuals who are temporarily ineligible for existing assistance programs based on income. This program is specifically aimed at those under 21 years of age or those who are 21 years or older, with a focus on providing medical assistance for a limited period. The bill includes distinct eligibility features that align with the federal poverty level guidelines and outlines the parameters under which beneficiaries can access these temporary services.

Contention

There are emerging discussions surrounding the bill, particularly regarding the limits on the duration of benefits. The temporary benefits are capped at a maximum of 60 months throughout a beneficiary's lifetime with restrictions placed regarding the relationship with other assistance programs. Critics may argue that these limits could create vulnerable situations for beneficiaries as they navigate their healthcare needs. Supporters, however, might contend that these restrictions are essential to prevent dependency on government assistance, aligning with the legislative intent to promote self-sufficiency among beneficiaries.