The bill amends K.S.A. 38-2001 to update the eligibility criteria and income requirements for the state children's health insurance program. Key changes include raising the gross household income limit for coverage from 225% to 250% of the federal poverty income guidelines, and removing the previous waiting period for newly enrolled participants with family incomes over 200% of the federal poverty guidelines who had prior comprehensive health coverage. Additionally, the bill eliminates the provision that a child would lose coverage if their family did not pay the applicable share of premiums, although it maintains that coverage is contingent on the availability of appropriated funds.

The bill also emphasizes the need for a capitated managed care plan that includes various health services for children aged zero to 19, and it mandates that the Secretary of Health and Environment ensure that contracted entities provide a full array of mental health services. Furthermore, it stipulates that eligibility and benefits are not entitlements and are subject to the availability of state and federal funds. The bill repeals the existing section of K.S.A. 38-2001, consolidating the updated provisions into a new framework for the program.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 38-2001
As introduced: 38-2001