South Dakota Senate Bill SB186

South Dakota 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/2/22
• Refer: 2/2/22
• Report Pass: 2/14/22
• Report Pass: 2/15/22

Caption

Expand Medicaid eligibility by the Legislature.

Impact

The implementation of SB186 is expected to significantly affect state healthcare laws by broadening the pool of individuals eligible for Medicaid. By providing coverage to more low-income adults, it aims to decrease the number of uninsured residents and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the bill directs the Department of Social Services to ensure all necessary state plan amendments are filed with federal agencies to facilitate this expansion, indicating active cooperation between state and federal healthcare systems.

Summary

Senate Bill 186 aims to expand Medicaid eligibility in South Dakota by implementing new provisions effective from July 1, 2023. The bill intends to extend Medicaid coverage to individuals aged 18 to 65 whose income is at or below 133% of the federal poverty level, thereby increasing access to healthcare for low-income residents. This expansion aligns with federal guidelines established under 42 U.S.C. § 1396a and seeks to offer benchmark-equivalent coverage similar to current Medicaid beneficiaries within the state.

Contention

Despite its potential benefits, SB186 faces opposition and raises notable points of contention. Critics are concerned about the financial implications for the state budget, particularly in the context of the requirement that the expansion ceases if federal funding drops below 90% of the medical assistance percentage. This could lead to instability in the healthcare provision for newly eligible individuals and apprehension regarding the state’s commitment to support such expansions during potential economic downturns.