Bill > HB1837

This bill amends Oklahoma law regarding Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) accounts, which are specialized savings accounts for individuals with disabilities. The bill expands protections for ABLE account funds by adding an important exemption: in the event of a beneficiary's death, the funds in an ABLE account will now be protected from Medicaid recovery liens, claims, and reimbursement proceedings filed by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority. The bill maintains existing provisions that already protect ABLE account balances from being seized through legal processes like garnishment or attachment and ensures that these account funds are not counted when determining eligibility for means-tested public assistance programs such as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. This protection applies to ABLE accounts established in Oklahoma or in other states. The bill is set to become effective on November 1, 2025, providing additional financial security for individuals with disabilities and their families by safeguarding their specialized savings accounts.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

http://www.oklegislature.gov/BillInfo.aspx?Bill=hb1837&Session=2500