The proposed bill amends Idaho's Medicaid regulations by establishing a new chapter that requires legislative approval for certain Medicaid state plan amendments and waivers, including those related to rural emergency hospital designations, Medicaid cost-sharing, and Medicaid expansion limits. It repeals existing sections of the Idaho Code concerning the legislative approval process and the powers of the Department of Health and Welfare, while introducing new requirements for the department to seek legislative approval before implementing any Medicaid changes that would expand coverage or increase state costs. The bill also outlines provisions for work requirements for able-bodied adults, options for individuals to choose advance premium tax credits instead of Medicaid, and exemptions for American Indians or Alaska Natives.

Additionally, the bill expands Medicaid eligibility to individuals under 65 years of age with a modified adjusted gross income at or below 133% of the federal poverty level and mandates the Department of Health and Welfare to submit necessary amendments to federal authorities within 90 days of the bill's approval. It creates a Hospital Assessment Fund for payments to private hospitals and outlines the assessment process, while removing certain provisions regarding care management programs to allow for more funding flexibility. The bill nullifies specific Medicaid-related rules effective July 1, 2025, and declares an emergency for immediate enactment upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 56-253, 56-263, 56-265, 56-267, 56-1403, 56-1404