The bill amends Section 1010.1 of the Oklahoma Medicaid Program Reform Act to modify eligibility requirements for self-funded or self-insured health care plans to participate in the state's premium assistance program. Key changes include the removal of the term "Oklahoma" from references to the Medicaid program, which is replaced with "state," and the introduction of new criteria for self-funded or self-insured plans to qualify for the program. Specifically, these plans must either be utilized by employers already participating in the program as of May 1, 2024, or be owned and operated by an interlocal self-funded public trust comprised of local government employers. Additionally, the bill outlines various compliance requirements for these plans, including coverage of essential health benefits and adherence to federal laws.

The bill also establishes a revolving fund known as the Health Employee and Economy Improvement Act (HEEIA) Revolving Fund, which will be used to implement the premium assistance plan and fund the state share of the Medicaid program. The Authority is tasked with seeking necessary waivers from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to expand the premium assistance program and ensure that it meets the needs of small businesses and their employees. An emergency clause is included, allowing the act to take effect immediately upon passage and approval.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 56-1010.1
Floor (House): 56-1010.1
Floor (Senate): 56-1010.1
Engrossed: 56-1010.1
Amended And Engrossed: 56-1010.1