Washington State
House of Representatives
Office of Program Research
BILL
ANALYSIS

Health Care & Wellness Committee

HB 1201


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: Extending medicaid coverage for foster care youth who reach age eighteen.

Sponsors: Representatives Roberts, Kagi, Haler, P. Sullivan, Walsh, Pettigrew, Darneille, Santos, McCoy, Ormsby, Wood, Dickerson, Clibborn, Schual-Berke, Simpson, Lantz, Hasegawa, Kenney, Pedersen and Seaquist.

Brief Summary of Bill
  • The Department of Social and Health Services will continue health coverage for foster children from their eighteenth birthday through their twenty-first birthday.

Hearing Date: 1/24/07

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

The Department of Social and Health Services provides services to youth in foster care generally through age 18, unless the youth is in school or in treatment. In addition to foster care placement services, the Department may provide medical coverage through Medicaid or the Medical Assistance Program.

Medical coverage is generally available through age 18 for all children covered by Medicaid. A few young adults between 18 and 21 that remain in foster care maintain eligibility for medical assistance.

Summary of Bill:

Eligibility for Medicaid or Medical Assistance is extended for youth that were in foster care on their 18th birthday, up to age 21, irrespective of continuing placement in foster care.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.