Proposing a constitutional amendment prohibiting the state from expanding eligibility for Medicaid under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
If passed, HJR130 would effectively keep Texas’ Medicaid eligibility criteria unchanged, potentially denying state assistance to a larger population that could have qualified for Medicaid expansion under federal law. This could reinforce current barriers faced by low-income individuals seeking healthcare coverage and may have significant implications for those recently eligible for Medicaid due to the ACA. Proponents of the amendment argue that it protects Texas from the potential costs that could arise from expanding Medicaid, while opponents contend it limits access to necessary health services for vulnerable populations.
HJR130 is a joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Texas Constitution that would prohibit the state from expanding eligibility for Medicaid under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Specifically, it aims to ensure that Texas does not provide medical assistance to individuals who would qualify under the ACA but did not meet the eligibility criteria in place in Texas as of January 1, 2021. This constitutional amendment is designed to be presented to voters in a statewide election scheduled for November 2, 2021.
The discussion surrounding HJR130 has highlighted significant contention regarding state versus federal healthcare standards. Supporters claim that protecting Texas from expanding Medicaid under the ACA is essential for fiscal prudence and aligns with conservative values of limited government involvement. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about the adverse health outcomes and financial burdens that may arise from a lack of expanded Medicaid access, particularly during public health crises. The resolution is part of a broader debate about state-level autonomy in healthcare and the implications of federal healthcare policies.