HB 2364-S2 - DIGEST

(AS OF HOUSE 2ND READING 2/10/00)

     Declares an intent to remove barriers to employment for individuals with disabilities by providing medical assistance to the working disabled in accordance with federal law and eligibility requirements established by the department.

     Directs the department to establish income, resource, and cost-sharing requirements in accordance with federal law.  In developing premium obligations and cost-sharing requirements under this act, the department must strongly consider that individuals receiving benefits under this act:  (1) Will be employed, and may be earning significant income.  Premium obligations and cost-sharing requirements must be designed to reduce the public funding needed to subsidize the cost of coverage, but must not be set so high as to create substantial barriers to obtaining coverage under this act; and

     (2) may have employer-sponsored health insurance coverage.  The department must make every effort to maximize opportunities to coordinate benefits with employer-sponsored coverage available to individuals receiving benefits under this act.

     Provides that the act shall be null and void if appropriations are not approved.