Medicaid; require Governor and Division of Medicaid to negotiate to obtain federal waiver to expand Medicaid coverage.
If successfully implemented, the bill is expected to significantly broaden the base of individuals eligible for Medicaid services in Mississippi. Under the proposed plan, adults who have incomes not exceeding 138% of the FPL would gain access to at least two Qualified Health Plans (QHPs). In addition, the establishment of a 'Mississippi Healthy Living Account' allows enrollees to make income-based contributions to health savings accounts, which can be utilized for co-pays and meeting other cost-sharing requirements. This approach aims to enhance healthcare access and affordability for the low-income workforce, thereby improving overall public health outcomes in the state.
House Bill 546 is a legislative proposal aiming to expand Medicaid coverage in Mississippi through negotiations with the federal government for a waiver. The bill mandates that the Governor and the Division of Medicaid negotiate with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to obtain a Section 1115 waiver under the federal Social Security Act. This waiver would facilitate the creation of a new Medicaid plan that seeks to cover low-income adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Notably, the bill focuses on working individuals who do not have access to affordable employer-sponsored insurance, thus targeting a significant gap in the current healthcare coverage landscape in Mississippi.
While the bill presents a path forward for Medicaid expansion, it has likely faced discussions regarding the sustainability of federal funding for the expanded coverage. The legislation specifies that the new Medicaid coverage will automatically terminate if the federal contribution rate drops below 90%, raising concerns over long-term financial viability. Furthermore, there may be debates on the implications of implementing cost-sharing requirements, which some may argue could be burdensome for lower-income individuals. The requirement for individuals to make quarterly contributions to their health accounts could be perceived as a barrier to access for those who are already facing financial hardships.