Bill > H3109

This bill proposes to expand Medicaid in South Carolina beginning January 1, 2026, by adding a new section to state law that allows adults aged 65 and younger to qualify for Medicaid if their income is at or below 133% of the federal poverty level, with an additional 5% income disregard. The bill is directly tied to provisions in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), which was originally passed in 2010. The bill's extensive preamble highlights several key motivations for expansion, including potentially bringing federal funding to the state, providing healthcare coverage to approximately 333,000 uninsured South Carolinians, creating an estimated 44,000 jobs, and generating significant economic benefits. The legislation argues that Medicaid expansion would not only improve individual health outcomes but also contribute to the state's economic welfare by bringing in additional federal funds and creating opportunities for workforce participation. The bill would take effect upon approval by the Governor, marking a significant policy shift in South Carolina's approach to healthcare coverage for low-income residents.

Budget and Finance

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=3109&session=126&summary=B