Bill > SF2859

This bill requires the commissioner of human services to seek federal approval, known as a waiver, to create a new option for individuals who earn too much to qualify for MinnesotaCare but still meet other eligibility rules. This option would allow them to purchase coverage through MinnesotaCare instead of buying a health plan on MNsure, which is Minnesota's health insurance marketplace, or from an individual insurer. The commissioner must also seek approval to allow these individuals to use federal tax credits and cost-sharing reductions, if they qualify, to help pay for this MinnesotaCare option, and to offer this option on MNsure for comparison with other health plans. The bill outlines criteria for this new purchase option, including setting a premium rate similar to what the state pays managed care plans, offering the same benefits as MinnesotaCare, limiting enrollment to open enrollment periods, allowing the commissioner to adjust the plan's value, and establishing ways to manage potential financial impacts on MNsure and the MinnesotaCare program itself, such as addressing issues like adverse selection (where healthier people opt out, potentially raising costs for others) and the state's financial responsibility. Finally, the commissioner must report to the legislature by March 1, 2017, on the progress of obtaining the federal waiver and any necessary legislative changes, with any state financial contribution being dependent on further legislative approval.