Bill > SB234

This bill expands Medicaid coverage for individuals under 21 years old who would otherwise be ineligible due to their immigration status. The bill provides limited medical coverage for emergency medical conditions, including emergency medical transportation, emergency room care, and specific inpatient services. Additionally, the bill allows for limited coverage of certain treatments for renal disease and cancer, subject to prior approval from the Department of Health and Human Services based on medical necessity. The coverage is specifically restricted and does not include services like elective surgery, preventive care, prescription drugs (except when administered by a healthcare provider), rehabilitation services, and many other types of medical care. The bill also requires the Department to seek federal financial participation and apply for any necessary waivers to implement this expanded coverage. Furthermore, the bill mandates that the Department identify the most common services provided for pediatric cancer and rare childhood diseases and apply to increase Medicaid reimbursement rates for these services by at least 2 percent. The provisions of the bill are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, with some sections becoming effective immediately for administrative preparation.