The bill focuses on public assistance programs in Iowa, specifically introducing work requirements for the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan (IHAWP). The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is mandated to seek federal approval to implement these work requirements, which stipulate that members must work at least 80 hours per month to maintain eligibility. Certain exemptions are provided for individuals under 19, over 65, disabled, medically frail, caretakers of young children, pregnant with high-risk pregnancies, receiving unemployment, or participating in substance use treatment. The bill also allows HHS to resubmit requests for federal approval if the initial request is denied and requires alignment of work rules across public assistance programs.

Additionally, the bill establishes an information technology fund under HHS for modernization initiatives, repeals the existing public assistance modernization fund, and transfers any remaining funds to the new IT fund by June 30, 2025. It also amends the Medicaid for employed people with disabilities program to disregard up to $10,000 in resources for individuals and $21,000 for couples when determining eligibility. HHS is tasked with reviewing the Medicaid program in other states and reporting back to the General Assembly by December 15, 2025, with recommendations to enhance employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 8.33