Bill > LB318

This bill requires the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services to submit a state plan amendment to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) by September 30, 2025, to provide Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage for incarcerated youth. Specifically, the coverage would apply to Medicaid-eligible youth under 21 years old, CHIP-eligible youth under 19 years old, and former foster care youth up to 26 years old who are currently in a public institution awaiting the resolution of criminal charges. Currently, federal regulations generally prohibit Medicaid funding for individuals in public institutions, so this bill seeks to create an exception for youth, potentially ensuring continued health coverage during a critical period. The bill amends section 68-911 of the Revised Statutes and represents an effort to maintain healthcare access for young people who might otherwise lose coverage due to their incarceration status.

Health and Social Services

https://nebraskalegislature.gov/bills/view_bill.php?DocumentID=59480