This bill establishes work requirements for the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan (IHAWP) by mandating that members work at least 80 hours per month to maintain eligibility. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is tasked with seeking federal approval for these requirements and may exempt certain individuals from this obligation based on specific criteria, such as age, disability, or caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, the bill stipulates that any exemptions under IHAWP should align closely with those in other public assistance programs. If federal regulations change to exclude work requirements, HHS is required to either discontinue IHAWP or implement an alternative plan, subject to federal approval.

Furthermore, the bill creates 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 (MEPD) program to allow for a maximum of $21,000 in available resources for couples, while maintaining the $10,000 limit for individuals. HHS is required to review the MEPD program in other states and report back to the General Assembly by December 15, 2025, with findings and recommendations to enhance employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 8.33, 249A.3