The proposed bill, known as the American Dream Act, aims to establish the American Dream Voluntary Transition Program as part of Ohio's Medicaid program. It introduces new sections 113.65 and 5166.38 to the Revised Code, which outline the program's structure and requirements. The program is designed to assist Medicaid recipients in transitioning to private insurance coverage while maintaining their Medicaid eligibility during the process. It includes the establishment of American Dream savings accounts, which participants can use for specific purposes such as housing, vehicle purchases, education, and job training. The bill mandates that the treasurer of state, in consultation with the Medicaid director, oversee these accounts and track participant deposits.
The American Dream Voluntary Transition Program consists of three phases, each with specific eligibility criteria based on income levels relative to the federal poverty line. Participants in the program must maintain employment and contribute a portion of their income to their savings accounts. The program is designed to last no longer than 24 months, and the Medicaid director is tasked with coordinating implementation efforts and reporting on the program's outcomes, including participant employment and transitions to private insurance. The bill emphasizes the importance of interagency collaboration to ensure effective execution and oversight of the program.