Bill > SB0257

This bill addresses budgeting and financial management for Utah's Medicaid program and Medicaid expansion, making several key changes to existing laws. The bill establishes detailed procedures for handling potential Medicaid financial shortfalls, including specific cost-saving measures that state agencies must implement if Medicaid expenses threaten to exceed available funding. It creates new provisions for the Medicaid ACA Fund and the Medicaid Growth Reduction and Budget Stabilization Account, specifying how funds can be collected, transferred, and used. Beginning July 1, 2025, the Legislature will be restricted to using only the Medicaid ACA Fund and the Medicaid Growth Reduction and Budget Stabilization Account to pay for state portions of Medicaid program and expansion costs. The bill also defines a "Medicaid shortfall" and outlines a systematic approach for state agencies to control costs if such a shortfall occurs, including measures like suspending hiring, freezing wage increases, canceling optional service coverage, and closing enrollment to new members. These provisions aim to provide more financial predictability and control over Medicaid spending while maintaining flexibility to respond to potential budget challenges.

Health and Social Services

https://le.utah.gov/~2025/bills/static/SB0257.html