Bill > H0199

This bill establishes the Refugee Medical Assistance Act in Idaho, creating a comprehensive framework for providing medical assistance to refugees and certain special immigrants. The bill defines refugees as individuals with specific immigration statuses, including those paroled, admitted as conditional entrants, admitted as refugees, granted asylum, or those with special immigration status from Afghanistan or Iraq. Eligibility for medical assistance is determined based on income, with individuals qualifying if their countable income does not exceed 133% of the federal poverty guidelines, and those above this threshold can "spend down" by subtracting medical costs from their income. The bill specifically excludes refugee cash assistance and sponsor-provided income and in-kind services from income calculations when determining eligibility. The medical assistance program is funded by federal sources (42 U.S.C. 1396 and 1397) and is contingent upon federal funding and state spending authority. The bill also nullifies existing administrative rules related to Refugee Medical Assistance on July 1, 2025, and declares an emergency, making the act effective on the same date, ensuring immediate implementation of these new provisions for supporting refugees' medical needs.

Health and Social Services

Health and Welfare Committee (H)

https://legislature.idaho.gov/sessioninfo/2025/legislation/H0199/