NJ
New Jersey Senate Bill S3294

New Jersey 2022-2023 Regular Session

New Jersey Senate Bill S3294

Introduced
10/31/22  
Refer
10/31/22  
Report Pass
11/7/22  

Caption

Requires DHS to disregard certain federal pension benefits for veterans in making Medicaid eligibility determinations.

Impact

The bill seeks to alleviate financial burdens on veterans by ensuring they do not lose access to Medicaid benefits simply because they receive financial assistance from the VA. Currently, the receipt of Aid and Attendance benefits could disqualify veterans from Medicaid due to income thresholds. Thus, the bill means to safeguard their access to essential health care services, which is significantly crucial for those needing assistance with daily living activities. The change may ensure that veterans can afford necessary care without disqualification from vital state-supported programs.

Summary

New Jersey Senate Bill S3294 proposes amendments to the Medicaid eligibility requirements for certain veterans aged 65 and older. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Department of Human Services (DHS) exclude the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Aid and Attendance pension benefits from eligibility determinations for Medicaid. This adjustment aims to prevent these federal benefits from impacting a veteran's qualification for state Medicaid, particularly for veterans who require in-home or nursing home care due to health conditions.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, the bill may face scrutiny regarding the allocation of state resources. Opponents of the bill may argue that disregarding these federal pension benefits could lead to increased state expenditures on Medicaid. The need for transparency about long-term costs and benefits will be vital as discussions regarding this bill progress. Advocates for veterans are likely to emphasize the bill's intention to support those who have served the nation, while concerns over economic sustainability and the potential for increased enrollment in Medicaid programs are likely to arise.

Companion Bills

NJ A5009

Same As Requires DHS to disregard certain federal pension benefits for veterans in making Medicaid eligibility determinations.

Previously Filed As

NJ A5009

Requires DHS to disregard certain federal pension benefits for veterans in making Medicaid eligibility determinations.

NJ A3172

Requires DHS to disregard certain federal pension benefits for veterans in making Medicaid eligibility determinations.

NJ S3482

Increases resource threshold for certain Medicaid eligibility groups.

NJ A4622

Increases resource threshold for certain Medicaid eligibility groups.

NJ A5472

Increases income threshold limit for certain Medicaid eligibility groups.

NJ A4612

Increases resource threshold limit for certain Medicaid eligibility groups.

NJ S3641

Increases income and resource threshold limit for certain Medicaid eligibility groups.

NJ S1788

Provides comprehensive Medicaid benefits to certain individuals formerly in foster care.

NJ A3575

Provides comprehensive Medicaid benefits to certain individuals formerly in foster care.

NJ A3289

Provides comprehensive Medicaid benefits to certain individuals formerly in foster care.

Similar Bills

NJ A5009

Requires DHS to disregard certain federal pension benefits for veterans in making Medicaid eligibility determinations.

NJ A3172

Requires DHS to disregard certain federal pension benefits for veterans in making Medicaid eligibility determinations.

NJ S1035

Amends law to extend length of postpartum coverage for Medicaid services for eligible pregnant women to 180-day period.

NJ S1946

Amends law to extend length of postpartum coverage for Medicaid services for eligible pregnant women to 180-day period.

NJ S2719

Phases out resource standard for non-Modified Adjusted Gross Income Medicaid eligibility groups.

NJ A5321

Codifies Medicaid coverage for eligible pregnant women for 365-day period beginning on last day of pregnancy.

NJ S3934

Codifies Medicaid coverage for eligible pregnant women for 365-day period beginning on last day of pregnancy.

NJ S3641

Increases income and resource threshold limit for certain Medicaid eligibility groups.