| Washington State House of Representatives Office of Program Research |
BILL ANALYSIS |
| Health Care & Wellness Committee | |
HB 1095
This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in
their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a
statement of legislative intent.
Brief Description: Implementing the part D drug copayment program.
Sponsors: Representatives Barlow, Hinkle, Appleton, Green, Ormsby, Schual-Berke, Cody, Blake, B. Sullivan, Hurst, O'Brien, Clibborn, Morrell, Conway, Kenney, Linville, Rolfes, Moeller and Dunn; by request of Governor Gregoire.
Brief Summary of Bill |
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Work Session: 1/8/07.
Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).
Background:
Congress passed and the President signed the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and
Modernization Act in December, 2003. It required that as of January 1, 2006 individuals who are
dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid must receive their prescription drug coverage through
Medicare Part D and be assessed a copay on each prescription they fill in an amount between $1
and $5. Prior to this change these individuals received their prescription drug coverage through
the Medicaid program and did not make any copay. There are approximately 100,000
individuals who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. The Governor's 2007-09 biennial
budget submittal assumes approximately $14 million general fund-state will be expended to
provide copayment coverage for the dual eligible population.
Summary of Bill:
The Department of Social and Health Services is authorized to offer Medicare Part D co-payment
coverage to individuals who are eligible for medical assistance or the medically needy program
and Medicare, subject to available funds.
Appropriation: None.
Fiscal Note: Requested on 1/10/07.
Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.