The bill amends New Jersey Medicaid law to significantly increase the income and resource threshold limits for various eligibility groups, particularly targeting the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) populations, as well as the Medically Needy and Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) programs. It raises the income eligibility threshold for the ABD group from 100% to 138% of the federal poverty level, which translates to an increase from $15,060 to $20,783 annually for individuals by 2024. Additionally, the Medically Needy Income Limit will also be adjusted to 138% of the federal poverty level, raising the monthly limit from $367 to $1,732. The resource eligibility limits will be set at $40,000 for individuals and $60,000 for couples, a significant increase from the current thresholds of $4,000 for ABD and Medically Needy, $2,000 for MLTSS, and $9,090 for Medicare Savings Programs.

Moreover, the bill establishes new resource standards for determining eligibility for the MLTSS and Medicare Savings Programs, aligning them with the Jersey Assistance for Community Caregiver (JACC) program. The Commissioner of Human Services is tasked with applying for necessary state plan amendments or waivers to implement these changes and secure federal funding. Overall, the bill aims to enhance access to Medicaid long-term care benefits and assist low-income individuals with Medicare costs, thereby improving healthcare access for vulnerable populations in New Jersey.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-3