This bill amends the New Jersey Medicaid program to extend coverage for eligible pregnant women for a full 365 days following the last day of their pregnancy, ensuring continued access to essential medical assistance during the postpartum period. Key changes include the deletion of outdated percentage references and the insertion of new income and resource standards that align with federal guidelines. The income eligibility for pregnant women is adjusted to reflect the highest level established under the State plan under Title XIX of the federal Social Security Act. Furthermore, the bill guarantees that a pregnant woman qualifying for Medicaid will retain her status as a qualified applicant throughout the entire 365-day period post-pregnancy, regardless of any changes in her family's income.

The legislation codifies the existing Medicaid coverage for eligible pregnant women, which has been in effect since FY 2022 and is part of the NJ FamilyCare 1115 Comprehensive Demonstration, valid through June 30, 2028. It aligns with federal provisions from the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, allowing states to extend postpartum Medicaid coverage from 60 days to 12 months, a change made permanent by the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2023. Additionally, the bill clarifies that Medicaid services will be available to pregnant individuals whose income does not exceed the highest eligibility level established for pregnant women under the State Medicaid plan, thereby improving access to healthcare services and addressing disparities in maternal health outcomes.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-3