Rhode Island 2023 Regular Session

Rhode Island Senate Bill S0717

Introduced
3/22/23  

Caption

Healthcare Assistance For Working People With Disabilities

Impact

If passed, SB S0717 would have significant implications for state healthcare policies regarding disabled workers. The removal of income and resource limits is intended to encourage employment among individuals with disabilities, reducing the economic barriers that often prevent them from entering or remaining in the workforce. The expectation is that by easing these restrictions, more individuals will be able to qualify for the Medicaid buy-in program, thereby improving their access to necessary healthcare services. This could have a positive impact on public health outcomes and economic productivity.

Summary

Senate Bill S0717, titled 'Healthcare Assistance for Working People with Disabilities,' aims to amend current legislation regarding eligibility for the Medicaid buy-in program for individuals with disabilities. The bill seeks to eliminate the existing income cap, which requires that a person's net accountable income does not exceed 250% of the federal poverty level. Additionally, the bill proposes to remove limits on available resources for eligible individuals, who previously could only hold $10,000 for individuals and $20,000 for couples. This change would allow a broader range of disabled individuals to access healthcare without the financial constraints previously outlined.

Contention

However, the bill does not come without contention. Critics might argue that removing resource limits could lead to increased costs for the state’s Medicaid program, raising concerns about sustainability and funding. Discussions around the bill have included worries that such changes could disproportionately benefit a relatively small demographic while straining resources available to more vulnerable populations. Stakeholders will likely weigh the benefits of expanding healthcare access against the fiscal realities of the state's budget and the potential for increased Medicaid expenditures.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

RI H5996

Healthcare Assistance For Working People With Disabilities

RI HB2375

Expanding medical assistance eligibility and enacting the healthcare access for working Kansans (HAWK) act.

RI SB257

Expanding medical assistance eligibility and enacting the healthcare access for working Kansans (HAWK) act.

RI AB341

Oral Health for People with Disabilities Technical Assistance Center Program.

RI H1373

Medical Coverage Assistance Program for Working Individuals with Disabilities

RI H142

Relative to community living for older adults and people with disabilities

RI HB0393

Services for People with Disabilities

RI AB2510

Dental care for people with developmental disabilities.

RI SB00279

An Act Waiving Asset Limits For Working Persons With Disabilities To Receive Medical Assistance.

RI SF548

Medical assistance income limit for people with disabilities and people ag 65 and over increase provision

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.