Bill > SB0851

This bill proposes to amend Tennessee's existing laws regarding Medicaid expansion by authorizing the governor to expand Medicaid coverage under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), a comprehensive healthcare reform law passed in 2010. Specifically, the bill would replace the existing Section 71-5-126 of the Tennessee Code with new language that explicitly grants the governor the power to negotiate with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to determine the specific terms of Medicaid expansion. Medicaid is a joint federal and state healthcare program that provides health coverage to eligible low-income individuals. By allowing the governor to explore expansion, the bill opens the potential for extending healthcare coverage to more low-income Tennessee residents who currently may not qualify under the state's existing Medicaid guidelines. The bill would take effect immediately upon becoming law, with the stated purpose of promoting public welfare.

Health and Social Services

https://wapp.capitol.tn.gov/apps/Billinfo/default.aspx?BillNumber=SB0851&ga=114