Washington State

House of Representatives

Office of Program Research

BILL

ANALYSIS

Ways & Means Committee

HB 1544

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: Restricting the eligibility for the basic health plan to the basic health transition eligibles population under the medicaid waiver.

Sponsors: Representatives Hunter and Anderson.

Brief Summary of Bill

  • Starting in March 2011, individuals who are not eligible for federal support under the Medicaid waiver for the Basic Health Plan (BHP) are no longer eligible for the BHP.

Hearing Date: 1/31/11

Staff: Erik Cornellier (786-7116).

Background:

Basic Health Plan

The Health Care Authority (Authority) administers the Basic Health Plan (BHP), which is a health care insurance program that assists enrollees by providing a state subsidy to offset the costs of premiums. Residents of Washington with an income of less than 200 percent of Federal Poverty Level are eligible for enrollment in the BHP. In addition, the enrollee must not be: (1) eligible for Medicare; (2) institutionalized; or (3) in school on a temporary work visa.

Federal Waiver

Medicaid is a federal-state program that provides health care services to specified categories of low-income individuals pursuant to federal standards. States may request a waiver from federal requirements for experimental, pilot, or demonstration projects. The 2010 Supplemental Budget directed the Authority to seek a waiver from the federal government to support some of the enrollees on the BHP. As of January 2011 the federal government has issued the terms and conditions for granting a waiver. Under the terms of the waiver, the federal government will provide matching funds to Washington for adults under age 65 in the BHP whose income is at or below 133 percent of the Federal Poverty Level and who are citizens or eligible qualified aliens.

Summary of Bill:

Starting in March 2011, individuals who are not eligible for federal support under the Medicaid waiver for the BHP are no longer eligible for the BHP. This restriction does not apply to foster parents.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on January 25, 2011.

Effective Date: The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.