This bill enacts a new section of the Public Assistance Act to allow the Secretary of Health Care Authority to amend the New Mexico State Medicaid Plan, creating a state-administered health coverage plan known as the "Medicaid Forward Plan." The plan aims to provide medical assistance by January 1, 2028, to residents under age sixty-five who are not eligible for existing Medicaid coverage and have a household income exceeding one hundred thirty-three percent of the federal poverty level. The Secretary is required to establish an affordability scale for premiums and cost-sharing based on household income, ensuring that financial assistance is available for individuals with incomes below four hundred percent of the federal poverty level. Additionally, the Secretary will consult with the Medicaid advisory committee and representatives of Indian nations, tribes, and pueblos to ensure effective implementation and communication regarding the plan.

The bill also mandates collaboration between the Secretary, the Superintendent of Insurance, and the New Mexico health insurance exchange to facilitate enrollment in the Medicaid Forward Plan and other health plans. This includes establishing systems for application and eligibility determination, as well as consumer outreach programs to assist individuals in the enrollment process. Furthermore, the bill appropriates two million dollars from the general fund for the development of the Medicaid Forward Plan, which will be used to hire staff and contract for consulting services. Any unspent funds at the end of fiscal year 2027 will revert to the general fund.