This bill amends sections of the North Dakota Century Code related to medical assistance benefits and Medicaid waivers. It establishes that the Department of Human Services must provide medical assistance benefits to eligible individuals, including medically needy persons with income below a specified level, children and families, and pregnant women without asset consideration. A significant addition is the requirement for the department to disregard social security survivor income and court-ordered child support for children under eighteen enrolled in a Medicaid waiver, enhancing support for these vulnerable groups.

Additionally, the bill modifies the eligibility criteria for Medicaid waivers, specifically for in-home services for children with extraordinary medical needs and those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. The age limit for these children is raised from eighteen to twenty-one, allowing for continued support as they transition into adulthood. The department is also given the authority to prioritize waiver applicants based on the degree of need. The provisions of this bill will take effect on July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
PREFILED: 50-24.1-02.6, 50-24.1-26
Adopted by the House Human Services Committee: 50-24.1-02.6, 50-24.1-26
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 50-24.1-02.6, 50-24.1-26
Enrollment: 50-24.1-02.6, 50-24.1-26
INTRODUCED: 50-24.1-02.6, 50-24.1-26