Bill > HB1004

This bill requires the Arkansas Department of Human Services to extend Medicaid coverage for mothers to a full year after giving birth, with two distinct pathways for implementation. For mothers eligible under the Arkansas Health and Opportunity for Me Act of 2021, the extended postpartum coverage will be delivered through that program, while mothers not meeting those eligibility requirements will receive coverage through the traditional Arkansas Medicaid Program. The bill mandates that the department take necessary steps to obtain federal approval for this one-year postpartum coverage, which may include submitting a state plan amendment or waiver. The department is also required to develop and implement rules to administer this new coverage extension. This legislation aims to provide longer-term healthcare support for new mothers during a critical period of potential health vulnerability and transition, expanding the current postpartum Medicaid coverage beyond its previous duration.

Health and Social Services

https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hb1004&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R