Tennessee House Bill HB1738

Tennessee 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/9/24
• Refer: 1/11/24

Caption

AN ACT to amend Tennessee Code Annotated, Title 4; Title 63; Title 68 and Title 71, relative to expanding medicaid to provide gun violence prevention services.

Impact

If enacted, HB1738 would significantly alter how Medicaid is utilized in Tennessee, focusing on addressing the public health crisis of gun violence. The bill mandates that the Department of Finance and Administration, along with the Bureau of TennCare, work together to identify existing programs or develop new ones eligible for federal matching funds. This measure has the potential to enhance resource allocation towards preventative services and treatment options for those affected by gun violence, fundamentally shifting state healthcare priorities.

Summary

House Bill 1738 aims to amend the Tennessee Code to expand Medicaid eligibility specifically to provide gun violence prevention services. This legislation is positioned within the broader context of health services, seeking to introduce preventive measures against gun violence through the state's Medicaid program. The bill permits the governor to negotiate with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the terms of this expansion, ensuring that it aligns with federal guidelines as established by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

Contention

The introduction of HB1738 may lead to debate among legislators regarding the appropriateness of expanding Medicaid for addressing gun violence. Supporters argue that this approach is a viable way to tackle a pressing societal issue, framing it as a necessary expansion of public health services. Conversely, opponents might view this as an overreach of government spending or question the effectiveness of Medicaid in addressing the root causes of gun violence. These discussions will likely reflect broader ideological divides regarding health policy and gun control within the state.