The Montana House of Representatives has advanced a bill that would provide continuous eligibility for two years for children under six enrolled in the Healthy Montana Kids program. Currently, families must reapply for eligibility every year, leading to gaps in coverage for busy families. The sponsor of the bill, Rep. Ed Stafman, believes continuous enrollment is crucial, especially after 15% of children in Montana lost their coverage during the redetermination process after COVID-19.
The focus on younger children is important, as their developmental years are critical. Rep. Stafman emphasized the importance of well-baby visits and regular medical care in preventing future health issues. However, Rep. Jane Gillette raised concerns about the redetermination process, stating that it is necessary to ensure the state is not burdened with unnecessary insurance costs when a family’s income or insurance situation changes.
The bill passed the preliminary House vote with a 57-43 majority and now awaits the final vote before moving to the Senate. This proposed change aims to address the challenges faced by low-income families in maintaining consistent health insurance coverage for their children.Emma White of the UM Legislative News Service reported on this development, showcasing the ongoing debate and potential impact of the bill on children’s healthcare in Montana.
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