Bill > HB186

This bill establishes a new state-administered health coverage plan called the "Medicaid Forward Plan" in New Mexico, aimed at providing medical assistance to residents who are under 65 and not currently eligible for existing Medicaid coverage. The plan would cover individuals with household incomes between 133% and 400% of the federal poverty level, with an affordability scale for premiums and cost-sharing based on income. The Health Care Authority would be responsible for amending the state Medicaid plan to implement this new coverage by January 1, 2028, in consultation with the Medicaid Advisory Committee and representatives of New Mexico's Native American tribes and pueblos. The bill requires the Health Care Authority and the Superintendent of Insurance to collaborate on creating enrollment systems and consumer outreach programs, potentially making the plan available for direct purchase through the New Mexico Health Insurance Exchange. To support the plan's development, the bill appropriates $2 million from the general fund for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to hire staff and obtain technical assistance. The secretary is also authorized to seek federal waivers to help administer the plan and maximize federal funding, with the goal of ensuring affordable health coverage for eligible New Mexico residents.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=186&year=25