Bill > S2496

This bill, called the "Keep Kids Covered Act," aims to extend and improve health insurance coverage for children under Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The bill provides for continuous eligibility, meaning children can remain enrolled in these programs for longer periods without interruption. Specifically, the bill extends continuous eligibility for deemed newborns until age 6, instead of the current one-year limit. For children ages 6 through 18, the bill increases the continuous eligibility period from 12 to 24 months. Additionally, the bill ensures that former foster youth can remain eligible for Medicaid until they reach age 26, regardless of their state of residence. The legislation also requires states to update contact information for enrolled children at least annually and inform them about their ongoing coverage. The changes will take effect one year after the bill's enactment, with some provisions for former foster youth beginning in January 2023. These modifications are designed to provide more stable healthcare coverage for children and reduce gaps in health insurance that could negatively impact their health and well-being.

Budget and Finance

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/2496/all-info