Bill > SB257

This bill establishes the Healthcare Access for Working Kansans (HAWK) Act, which expands Medicaid eligibility in Kansas to adults under 65 who are not pregnant and have incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level, starting January 1, 2026. The bill requires employment verification for most applicants, with exemptions for students, parents, individuals with disabilities, volunteers, homeless individuals, veterans, and those experiencing hardship. The state will administer the expanded Medicaid through a managed care delivery system, with preference given to health insurance providers already operating on the state's health benefit exchange. The bill mandates that managed care organizations offer tiered benefit plans with enhanced benefits for individuals demonstrating healthy behaviors. If federal medical assistance funding drops below 90%, the state will terminate coverage over a 12-month period. The legislation also establishes a rural health advisory committee to provide recommendations on rural healthcare issues and requires the secretary of health and environment to submit annual reports on cost savings and program outcomes. Importantly, the bill specifies that abortion services will not be covered except when mandated by federal law. The bill aims to provide healthcare coverage to more low-income working Kansans while implementing specific oversight and reporting mechanisms to track the program's effectiveness and financial impact.

Health and Social Services

Ways and Means (Senate)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/sb257/