Bill > SB161

This bill requires legislative approval before any state agency can seek or implement a public assistance program waiver or authorization from the federal government that would expand program eligibility or increase state costs, effective July 1, 2025. Specifically, the bill mandates that such waivers or changes must be expressly approved by an act of the legislature, with an exception allowing the Legislative Coordinating Council to provide approval when the legislature is not in session. The bill covers a wide range of potential changes, including Medicaid state plans, state plan amendments, and federal social security act waivers. Additionally, the bill extends this approval requirement to changes in funding structures or services for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The terms "public assistance program" is defined by referencing existing state law (K.S.A. 39-709), and "state agency" is defined according to K.S.A. 75-3701. Importantly, the bill does not impact state plan amendments or waiver programs already in place before July 1, 2025, providing continuity for existing programs.

Government Affairs, Labor and Employment

Government Efficiency (Senate)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb161/