everything you want to know (and don't) about arkansas politics

Republican Sponsorship
Healthcare

HB1010

To Require Medicaid Coverage For Postpartum Mothers For One Year After Giving Birth.

Failed

Last Action (May 1, 2023): Died in House Committee at Sine Die Adjournment

Sponsors

AI-Generated Summary

House Bill 1010 requires the Arkansas Department of Human Services to extend Medicaid coverage for postpartum mothers from the current duration to one full year after giving birth. The bill mandates that the department take all necessary actions, including submitting state plan amendments or federal waivers, to secure the required federal approval for this coverage extension. Additionally, the department is directed to promulgate the necessary rules to administer the program. The purpose of the bill is to ensure continued access to healthcare services for mothers in the year following childbirth.

Potential Impact Analysis

Who Might Benefit?

The primary beneficiaries are postpartum mothers in Arkansas who are currently enrolled in Medicaid and would otherwise lose coverage shortly after giving birth, as well as their newborns who benefit from their mothers having continued access to medical care, mental health services, and postpartum support.

Who Might Suffer?

The primary entity negatively impacted is the State of Arkansas, specifically the Department of Human Services and the state budget, as the extension of coverage requires additional state funding and administrative resources to implement and maintain the program over the extended period.

Read Full Bill on arkleg.state.ar.us