The Healthcare Access for Working Kansans (HAWK) Act seeks to expand medical assistance eligibility in Kansas for adults under 65 who are not pregnant and have an income not exceeding 138% of the federal poverty level, effective January 1, 2026. The bill requires the Secretary of Health and Environment to request necessary approvals from the United States Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to implement this expansion. It also mandates employment verification for applicants, with exemptions for certain groups, such as full-time students and individuals with disabilities. Additionally, the act explicitly states that it will not cover abortion services, except as required by federal law.

To enhance oversight and address rural health issues, the bill establishes a Rural Health Advisory Committee and requires annual reporting on cost savings and program effectiveness. It amends existing laws to improve oversight of home and community-based services and mandates additional meetings for the Robert G. (Bob) Bethell Joint Committee on Home and Community-Based Services and KanCare Oversight. The bill also modifies the fee structure for health maintenance organizations and Medicare provider organizations, replacing percentage-based fees with a flat privilege fee of 5.77% of total premiums and charges, while requiring biannual reports on expected premium collections. The act will take effect upon publication in the Kansas register.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 39-7, 40-3213
As introduced: 39-7, 40-3213