House Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to enhance the Healthy Montana Kids Plan by establishing continuous eligibility for children under 6 years of age. The bill mandates that the Department of Public Health and Human Services apply for necessary waivers to implement this continuous eligibility for a duration of 1 year from the date of initial enrollment or subsequent reenrollment, rather than the previous standard of 3 years. This change is intended to provide consistent access to healthcare services during critical early childhood development, improve health outcomes, reduce administrative costs, and ensure that children remain enrolled even if their family circumstances change.

The bill also requires the department to conduct audits for compliance and to submit requests for waivers and amendments by July 1, 2025. It emphasizes the importance of ongoing enrollment in reducing disenrollment rates, increasing participation in well-child visits, and improving access to early intervention services. The effective date of the act is upon passage and approval, signaling an immediate commitment to improving healthcare access for young children in Montana.