Bill > SM3

This Memorial requests the New Mexico Legislative Council to direct the Legislative Health and Human Services Committee to study the potential benefits and costs of allowing New Mexico residents who are not currently eligible for Medicaid, a government health insurance program for low-income individuals, to purchase coverage through a Medicaid buy-in plan. The goal is to increase access to affordable health care options for those who remain uninsured or underinsured, as many New Mexicans cite high insurance costs as the primary reason they lack coverage, and existing plans often have high deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses. The study will involve gathering public input, comparing the costs of private insurance with Medicaid managed care plans, assessing administrative feasibility, understanding the impact on healthcare providers and patients, and exploring ways to ensure coverage expansion for low-income, uninsured residents. To support this study, various state agencies, including the Office of Superintendent of Insurance and the Human Services Department, along with the New Mexico Health Insurance Exchange, insurers, and healthcare providers, are asked to provide relevant cost and coverage information.