The bill would amend the Human Resources Code to require the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to provide two consecutive periods of continuous eligibility to a child younger than the age of 19 enrolled in Medicaid between each certification and recertification of the child's eligibility. HHSC would be required to perform an income check during the sixth month following the date on which a child's eligibility for medical assistance is certified or recertified. If the review indicates the child's household income does not exceed the maximum income for eligibility, HHSC would be required to provide a second period of continuous eligibility. If the review indicates the child's household income does exceed the maximum income for eligibility, HHSC would be required to continue to provide medical assistance for a period of not less than 30 days, in order to provide the child's parent or guardian time to provide documentation demonstrating that the child's household income does not exceed the maximum income for eligibility. If a parent or guardian fails to provide information demonstrating financial eligibility, HHSC would be required to provide written notice of termination which must include a statement that the child may be eligible for enrollment in the Children's Health Insurance Program.
Based on the analysis, the duties and responsibilities of HHSC associated with implementing the provisions of the bill could be accomplished by utilizing existing resources.
No significant fiscal implication to units of local government is anticipated.