The bill amends Section 3 of P.L.1968, c.413 (C.30:4D-3) to increase the income threshold limit for certain Medicaid eligibility groups in New Jersey, specifically setting the medically needy eligibility income standard at 138 percent of the poverty level. This change replaces previous income standards based on the State's payment levels for families with dependent children. Additionally, the bill aligns the resource standards for determining medically needy eligibility with those for recipients of Supplemental Security Income, while also streamlining the eligibility criteria by removing outdated income thresholds and clarifying limits for various groups, including children, pregnant women, and individuals aged 65 and older.

The bill specifically targets the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) population and the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program, raising the income limit for the ABD group from 100% to 138% of the federal poverty level, which translates to an increase from $15,650 to $21,597 per year for individuals by 2025. The medically needy income limit will also rise to 138% of the federal poverty level, increasing from $367 to $1,800 per month for individuals. To implement these changes, the bill requires the Commissioner of Human Services to apply for necessary state plan amendments or waivers to secure federal funding for Medicaid expenditures, while also simplifying administrative processes related to Medicaid eligibility. The act is set to take effect immediately upon passage.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4D-3