Introduced

This act allows Medicaid eligibility for an employed person who meets the definition of disabled, satisfies asset limits, and who has an annual income of up to 250 percent of the federal poverty level.

The asset limit for the new program is the same as that for the Medical Assistance – Permanently and Totally Disabled (MA-PTD) program, currently $999.99 for a single person and $2,000 for a couple with the standard exemptions. The individual must have a gross income of 250 percent or less of the federal poverty level. Individuals with gross income in excess of one hundred percent of the federal poverty level shall pay a specified monthly premium for participation. For income to qualify as earned income for the purposes of this program, the individual must demonstrate that Social Security and Medicare taxes are paid on the earnings.

If an individual's employer offers health insurance that is more cost effective, the individual shall participate in the employer-sponsored insurance. The Department of Social Services, however, will be responsible for costs associated with the employer insurance.

Any person who applies for or receives medical assistance under this section who knowingly provides false documentation required for eligibility shall be subject to all remedies and sanctions permitted under federal and state law and shall be permanently barred from participation in any state-funded medical assistance program.

This act provides for the program to automatically sunset in six years unless reauthorized by the General Assembly.

This act has an emergency clause to be in full force and effect on July 1, 2006.

ADRIANE CROUSE