STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
RS28856 / H0345
This is the FY 2021 supplemental appropriation bill for the Catastrophic Health Care Program, also known as
the CAT Fund or CAT Program.
The Catastrophic Health Care Program was established in Idaho Code (Section 31-3517) to meet the needs of the
medically indigent in Idaho who do not qualify for state or federal Health and Welfare programs but do qualify
for county assistance. Section 57-813, Idaho Code, provides for the creation of the continuously appropriated
CAT Fund, and provides that the appropriate county is responsible for the first $11,000 in medical bills incurred
by each medically indigent individual in any twelve month period. Section 39-3519, Idaho Code, also requires
the CAT Program to pay for all eligible and approved medical bills within 45 days of board approval and for
eligible amounts in excess of the county's portion of $11,000.
For the first six months of the current fiscal year, the CAT Board approved and expended just over $7 million
in claims. The CAT Board estimates spending about the same amount in the second half of the fiscal year. Any
amount appropriated in the bill that is unexpended at the end of the fiscal year will remain in CAT Fund and
will be available for claims in FY 2022.
This funding is needed to pay for claims and services that have already been provided on behalf of an Idahoan
that is eligible for services pursuant to Idaho Code. If the legislation is not approved, the CAT Board will have
to hold claims payments until additional funding is provided.
FISCAL NOTE
This bill appropriates and transfers $5,999,900 from the General Fund to the Catastrophic Health Care Cost
Fund to cover the costs of eligible claims that have been brought before the CAT Board.
Contact:
Jared Tatro
Budget and Policy Analysis
(208) 334-4740
DISCLAIMER: This statement of purpose and fiscal note are a mere attachment to this bill and prepared by a proponent
of the bill. It is neither intended as an expression of legislative intent nor intended for any use outside of the legislative
process, including judicial review (Joint Rule 18).
Statement of Purpose / Fiscal Note Bill SOP/FN INTRODUCED: 03/18/2021, 8:44 AM