Bill > SB797

This bill aims to streamline Medicaid enrollment for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients in Hawaii by requiring the Department of Human Services to automatically enroll SSI participants in the state's Medicaid program. Currently, SSI recipients must complete a separate Medicaid application, which creates an administrative burden and potentially reduces program participation. The bill mandates that the department either directly enroll SSI recipients or authorize the Social Security Administration to do so within 30 days of an individual becoming eligible for SSI benefits. The legislation is based on the fact that 33 other states and Washington, D.C. already have similar automatic enrollment processes, which are authorized under Section 1634 of the Social Security Act. SSI is a federal program providing monthly financial assistance to low-income older adults and people with disabilities, and this bill seeks to simplify access to healthcare for these vulnerable populations by eliminating the need for a separate Medicaid application. The Department of Human Services will be required to submit progress reports to the legislature before the 2026 and 2027 legislative sessions, and the act will take effect upon approval.

Health and Social Services

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=797&year=2026