The bill mandates the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, in collaboration with the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services, to seek federal approval for establishing continuous Medicaid eligibility for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities receiving services through a home and community-based services waiver. It requires the secretaries of health and environment and children and families to enter into data-matching agreements with state agencies to verify eligibility for food and medical assistance. The bill prohibits certain public assistance program waivers or exemptions without legislative approval, disallows self-attestation for eligibility determination, and limits retroactive enrollment in medical assistance programs. Additionally, it requires immediate termination of medical assistance eligibility upon confirmation of an enrollee's death and increases the age limit for able-bodied adults without dependents.

The legislation also introduces significant changes to the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) and food assistance programs, establishing a structured penalty system for non-cooperation with work programs and child support services, and imposing stricter eligibility criteria for food assistance. It prohibits the use of TANF funds for certain purchases and restricts TANF usage to within Kansas. The bill includes provisions for drug screening applicants for cash assistance, with penalties for positive tests, and outlines the assignment of support rights to the state for TANF recipients. Furthermore, it establishes a limited power of attorney for the secretary to negotiate support payments on behalf of recipients and details the conditions under which liens can be filed against the property of medical assistance recipients. Overall, the bill aims to tighten eligibility and compliance requirements for assistance programs while providing pathways for rehabilitation through drug treatment participation.

Statutes affected:
Conference Committee Report - Fri, Mar 27, 2026: 39-709, 75-3701
Enrolled: 39-709, 75-3701