Bill > S2071

This bill establishes a comprehensive Disaster Relief Medicaid program to provide medical assistance to survivors of major disasters, national emergencies, or public health emergencies beginning January 1, 2027. The legislation allows states to offer Medicaid coverage to relief-eligible survivors, defined as individuals in disaster-impacted areas or who lost employment due to a disaster, with income at or below 133-200% of the poverty line. The bill provides a streamlined, simplified application process with presumptive eligibility, continuous coverage during the two-year relief period, and 100% federal matching funds for medical assistance. States can offer expanded services including mental health treatment, home and community-based services, and care coordination without traditional Medicaid restrictions. The bill also creates an HCBS Emergency Response Corps grant program to help states support disaster survivors, provides guidance for states to increase provider access during disasters, and requires a comprehensive evaluation of the program's implementation and impact. Additional provisions include protecting Medicare Part B enrollment periods for disaster survivors and allowing flexibility for states to implement the new requirements.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2071/all-info