The bill amends various sections of the Revised Code to enhance the integrity of Ohio's Medicaid program and improve the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Key provisions include the establishment of annual joint reviews by legislative committees to assess Medicaid waiver components, the introduction of chip-enabled Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards for SNAP, and the designation of section 5101.542 as the Enhanced Cybersecurity for SNAP Act. Significant changes involve expanded investigative powers for the Attorney General and the Auditor of State, allowing them to issue subpoenas and audit Medicaid providers. The bill also introduces regulations on tracking devices, specifying conditions for their use, and emphasizes the importance of compliance monitoring and fraud prevention within the Medicaid program.

Additionally, the bill revises penalties for Medicaid fraud, changing them from misdemeanors to felonies based on the value of fraudulently obtained services. It establishes definitions for terms related to corrupt activities, including organized retail theft, and mandates the creation of an all-payer claims database to enhance transparency. The legislation also strengthens reporting requirements for individuals aware of fraud or misuse of public funds, protects whistleblowers from retaliation, and outlines measures for the suspension of Medicaid provider agreements in cases of credible fraud allegations. Overall, the bill aims to bolster the integrity of public assistance programs and ensure accountability among providers while enhancing service delivery through improved oversight and compliance mechanisms.

Statutes affected:
As Introduced: 5101.54, 5101.542
As Reported By House Committee: 109.85, 117.10, 2903.216, 2913.40, 2923.31, 4113.52, 5101.542, 5164.32, 5164.33, 5164.36, 5164.57, 5167.03, 5167.18
As Passed By House: 109.85, 117.10, 2903.216, 2913.40, 2923.31, 4113.52, 5101.542, 5164.32, 5164.33, 5164.36, 5164.57, 5167.03, 5167.18
As Enrolled: 109.85, 117.10, 2903.216, 2913.40, 2923.31, 4113.52, 5101.542, 5164.32, 5164.33, 5164.36, 5164.57, 5167.03, 5167.18