This bill proposes significant updates to current statutes regarding public benefits in Arizona, particularly focusing on the management and verification of eligibility for health care programs. It introduces new provisions that require the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) to contract with health benefits purchasing organizations, which must be licensed and demonstrate solvency. Additionally, the bill mandates the publication of a fixed benefit price list that contractors must adhere to when reimbursing health care providers, ensuring transparency and consistency in pricing.

Furthermore, the bill establishes rigorous eligibility verification processes for applicants and enrollees in programs administered by the AHCCCS and the Department of Economic Security. It requires comprehensive checks against multiple state and federal databases to confirm factors such as income, residency, and citizenship status. The legislation also emphasizes the need for real-time verification and event-triggered reviews of eligibility, aiming to prevent fraud and ensure that public benefit programs operate under a "proof before payment" model. Overall, the bill seeks to enhance accountability, reduce improper payments, and foster competition within Arizona's public health care system.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 36-2930.07, 36-2930.08, 46-232, 41-5921, 41-5912, 41-5922