Bill > SJR0088

This Joint Resolution requests the Governor of Tennessee to apply for a federal waiver, which is a formal exemption from certain federal rules, to establish a small pilot program called the "TennCare Opt Out" program within the existing TennCare program. TennCare is Tennessee's Medicaid program that provides health insurance to low-income individuals and families. The proposed pilot program would allow a limited number of current TennCare participants to opt out of the traditional system and instead receive catastrophic health insurance coverage. Funds appropriated to TennCare would cover the premiums for these participants, and they would also receive funds on an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card, similar to how food stamps are distributed, to purchase primary care services and medications. The intention is that by receiving these funds directly, participants would actively seek the best prices for healthcare, and providers would be incentivized to offer lower prices due to immediate payment and reduced administrative costs, potentially allowing participants to keep any unused funds at the end of the year.