House Bill 1738 aims to amend Tennessee law to allow for the expansion of Medicaid eligibility specifically for the purpose of providing gun violence prevention services. The bill proposes to replace the existing language in Tennessee Code Annotated, Section 71-5-126, with new provisions that empower the governor to negotiate with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding the terms of this Medicaid expansion. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Department of Finance and Administration, along with the Bureau of TennCare, identify existing state programs or create new ones that qualify for federal matching funds under the state Medicaid plan, and develop a plan for implementation, subject to CMS approval.

The act is designed to enhance public welfare by addressing gun violence through Medicaid services, and it will take effect immediately upon becoming law. This legislative effort reflects a targeted approach to public health and safety by leveraging federal resources to combat gun violence in Tennessee.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 71-5-126