Bill > SB0164

This bill proposes to establish a temporary TennCare benefits program in Tennessee to provide medical assistance to individuals who do not currently qualify for existing healthcare programs. The program would offer medical coverage for up to 12 months within a 24-month period, with a lifetime maximum of 60 months, for two specific groups: individuals under 21 and individuals 21 and older, both with family incomes at or below 138% of the federal poverty level. The program would be funded through 90% federal and 10% state funds and would require the Bureau of TennCare to submit a waiver application to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services by December 31, 2025. Key provisions include ensuring that the temporary benefits do not replace existing medical assistance programs, allowing beneficiaries to apply for other programs if they become eligible, and implementing a time-tracking system to monitor usage. The bill emphasizes that the program is not an entitlement and is subject to annual appropriations. Importantly, the program aims to provide temporary medical assistance to low-income individuals who fall into coverage gaps in the current healthcare system, potentially helping those who do not qualify for TennCare, CoverKids, or other existing healthcare programs.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0164&ga=114