The bill aims to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of eligibility determinations for the Arkansas Medicaid Program and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by allowing the Department of Human Services (DHS) to directly obtain real-time employment and income data from external data providers. Specifically, it amends Arkansas Code 20-76-215 to include a new subsection that emphasizes the importance of timely benefit deliveries and operational efficiencies, enabling DHS to access necessary data for SNAP eligibility determinations.

Additionally, the bill modifies Arkansas Code 20-77-2104 regarding Medicaid eligibility verification, introducing a new subsection that permits DHS to supplement data from the Federal Data Services Hub with real-time information from external sources. This includes not only employment and income data but also other relevant information such as address confirmation and contact details. The goal is to maximize the benefits of the Federal Data Services Hub and ensure compliance with federal law in making Medicaid eligibility determinations.

Statutes affected:
SB 474: 20-76-215, 20-77-2104