South Dakota House Bill HJR5001

South Dakota 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/25
• Refer: 1/14/25
• Report Pass: 1/17/25
• Engrossed: 1/21/25
• Refer: 2/3/25
• Report Pass: 2/26/25
• Enrolled: 3/3/25
• Passed: 3/6/25

Caption

Proposing and submitting to the voters at the next general election an amendment to the Constitution of the State of South Dakota, conditioning the requirement of expanded Medicaid on the level of federal medical assistance.

Impact

The implementation of HJR5001 would significantly impact Medicaid eligibility and enrollment standards in South Dakota. By tying Medicaid expansion to federal assistance levels, the state could mitigate financial risks during periods of reduced federal support. However, the resolution could lead to potential gaps in healthcare access for eligible residents if the federal assistance were to decrease. This may particularly affect those who depend on Medicaid for essential health services, pushing the burden of healthcare access back onto those most in need in precarious economic situations.

Summary

HJR5001 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of South Dakota. The amendment seeks to condition the state's requirement to expand Medicaid benefits on the level of federal medical assistance provided. Specifically, it mandates that if the federal medical assistance percentage falls below 90%, the state will not be obligated to provide expanded Medicaid coverage. This provision is intended to affect individuals aged 18 to 65 who have incomes at or below 133% of the federal poverty level, ensuring they have access to healthcare services as mandated by federal law in 2021.

Sentiment

Sentiment surrounding HJR5001 is mixed, with strong opinions on both sides of the issue. Supporters assert that this measure protects the state from financial risks associated with rising Medicaid costs, advocating for fiscal responsibility and prudent management of state resources. Conversely, detractors argue that linking Medicaid expansion to federal assistance levels could leave many vulnerable individuals without necessary healthcare coverage, potentially exacerbating healthcare disparities in the state. The debate reflects broader concerns regarding state versus federal responsibilities in healthcare funding and access.

Contention

Notable points of contention in the discussions around HJR5001 include the potential consequences of a reduced federal medical assistance percentage on the state’s vulnerable populations. Opponents raise alarm over the dangers of having a work requirement for Medicaid eligibility, specifically for individuals who may not be able to meet such criteria due to various circumstances, including disability or other limiting factors. This concern highlights the broader ethical debate surrounding access to healthcare for all, particularly in how changes to Medicaid requirements might disproportionately affect low-income individuals and families.