Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] establishes new requirements for the expansion of Medicaid eligibility by the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), specifically targeting able-bodied adults who must comply with community engagement requirements. The bill mandates DPHHS to submit a federal waiver application by December 1, 2025, and requires a report to the legislature if the waiver is rejected, detailing the reasons for rejection and any potential legal challenges. It also introduces measures to enhance program integrity, including biannual eligibility redeterminations and a lifetime benefit limit for able-bodied adults. The eligibility criteria are modified to include individuals with an income between 0% and 100% of the federal poverty level, under 65 years of age, and able-bodied, while also raising the age limit for community engagement participation from 55 to 65 years.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 53-6-1313 of the Montana Code Annotated, making the continuation of Medicaid coverage contingent upon the appropriation of additional state funds and allowing for increased premiums or cost-sharing measures. It includes provisions for the secretary of state to poll the legislature for a special session if federal assistance percentages fall below certain levels. The act will be implemented within current budgeted resources and includes severability and contingent voidness provisions, stating it will be void if the legislature does not extend the termination date of the Montana Health and Economic Livelihood Partnership Act or if specific conditions for Medicaid expansion are unmet by set deadlines. The act is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2025, and will terminate on June 30, 2029.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 39-12-103, 53-6-1304, 53-6-1307, 53-6-1308, 53-6-1313
SB0334_1(1): 39-12-103, 53-6-1304, 53-6-1307, 53-6-1308, 53-6-1313
SB0334_1(2): 39-12-103, 53-6-1304, 53-6-1307, 53-6-1308, 53-6-1313
SB0334_1(3): 39-12-103, 53-6-1304, 53-6-1307, 53-6-1308, 53-6-1313
SB0334_1(4): 39-12-103, 53-6-1304, 53-6-1307, 53-6-1308, 53-6-1313
SB0334_1: 39-12-103, 53-6-1304, 53-6-1307, 53-6-1308, 53-6-1313