This bill seeks to revise Montana's Medicaid laws by eliminating work requirements and premiums, establishing 12-month continuous eligibility for Medicaid coverage, and enhancing customer service for Medicaid clients. Key provisions include a mandate for the Department of Public Health and Human Services to apply for amendments to existing Medicaid waivers to authorize continuous eligibility for parents, caretaker relatives, and adults eligible for Medicaid. The bill also requires improvements in the application and renewal process, such as online and phone submissions, text messaging and email communication, and a dedicated hotline for assistance. Additionally, it establishes a Medicaid Client Advisory Board to gather feedback from current and former Medicaid members on program administration and service delivery.

Significant changes in the bill include the deletion of community engagement requirements and the repeal of sections related to taxpayer integrity fees and community engagement activities. The bill appropriates $3 million from the general fund for the Department of Public Health and Human Services for the biennium starting July 1, 2025, and sets a new effective date of June 30, 2025. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the accessibility and efficiency of Medicaid services in Montana, provide high-quality healthcare access to all Montanans, and support low-income individuals in improving their employment prospects while implementing safeguards against fraud, waste, and abuse within the Medicaid and unemployment insurance programs.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 39-12-103, 53-2-301, 53-6-160, 53-6-1302, 53-6-1303, 53-6-1305, 53-6-1313, 53-6-1315, 53-6-1325