Tennessee House Bill HB1611

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/22/23
• Refer: 1/10/24

Caption

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

Impact

The bill requires the Tennessee Bureau of TennCare to establish the buy-in program by January 1, 2025, which will enable participants to access health insurance through TennCare, including as a supplement to any employer-sponsored insurance. The program will not impose income or resource limitations and must be designed to coordinate with existing employer benefits. Individuals meeting the predefined eligibility criteria, including those who are at least 18 years old and meet federal disability requirements, will be able to join the program.

Summary

House Bill 1611, known as the 'TennCare for Working Individuals with Disabilities Act', aims to amend the Tennessee Code Annotated to facilitate access to healthcare for working individuals with disabilities. The bill establishes a buy-in program that allows these individuals to obtain or retain Medicaid coverage by paying premiums, thereby fostering employment while providing necessary medical assistance. The overarching goal is to eliminate barriers that discourage employment due to fear of losing healthcare benefits.

Contention

Key points of discussion around HB1611 center on the structure and sustainability of the buy-in program, including the establishment of cost-sharing requirements and guidelines for coverage. Notable conditions include the provision of a grace period for those who experience job loss and the coordination of benefits with employer-sponsored programs. There is potential contention on whether the Medicaid buy-in program meets the diverse needs of all individuals with disabilities, especially regarding costs and administrative efficiency.

Additional_notes

The legislation is an effort to improve employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities by providing health coverage options that otherwise may discourage them from joining the workforce. Furthermore, the bill reflects the state's commitment to align with federal guidelines for Medicaid while pursuing innovative strategies to support this demographic.