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. The Secretary of Health and Environment is responsible for submitting necessary amendments to the United States Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to facilitate this expansion. The act requires applicants to provide employment verification, with exemptions for certain groups, such as full-time students and individuals experiencing homelessness. Additionally, it establishes a Rural Health Advisory Committee to address rural health issues and mandates annual reporting on cost savings and program effectiveness.

The bill also includes provisions for a comprehensive report at the start of each legislative session detailing the transfer of individuals from state or private institutions to home and community-based services, along with insights into the KanCare program. It amends the fee structure for health maintenance organizations and Medicare provider organizations by instituting a privilege fee of 5.77% of total premiums and subscription charges, while eliminating previous rates. The act also repeals certain existing statutes related to medical assistance fees and specifies that it will not cover abortion services except as required by federal law. The bill will take effect upon publication in the Kansas register.

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