Bill > HB2386

This bill updates the income eligibility requirements for the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP or CHIP) in Kansas, specifically modifying the state law governing the program's coverage of children. The bill adjusts the income threshold for children's health insurance eligibility from year-specific percentages to a consistent standard of up to 250% of the federal poverty income guidelines. The legislation maintains key program features such as continuous 12-month eligibility, presumptive eligibility, and performance-based contracting, while emphasizing that the program is not an entitlement and is subject to available state and federal funding. The bill also preserves provisions requiring participants to be U.S. citizens or lawful residents, allows for a sliding-fee scale based on ability to pay, and gives the secretary of health and environment flexibility to adjust income levels if funding becomes insufficient. Importantly, the bill removes previous language about waiting periods for newly enrolled participants and simplifies the program's administrative framework, with the goal of maintaining comprehensive health coverage for low-income children in Kansas.

Budget and Finance, Health and Social Services

Appropriations (H)

https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/measures/hb2386/