Bill > HB230

This bill aims to provide continuous eligibility for young children covered by the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) and Medicaid in Montana. It directs the state's Department of Public Health and Human Services to apply for waivers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to allow children enrolled in the Healthy Montana Kids plan, which includes both Medicaid and CHIP, to remain enrolled for the first 5 years of their life, even if their family's income changes. The bill cites potential benefits of this policy, such as improved health outcomes, reduced administrative costs, and better school readiness. If the waivers are approved, the department must implement the continuous eligibility provision by January 1, 2024.