Key Legislative Bills Are Coming Up in Indiana Statehouse
The Indiana legislative session continues as committees work through legislation assigned to their committees. Many bills are up for discussion as the deadline for hearings is Monday, Feb. 17. Until then, there’s much to keep track of, and urgent action is needed on priority issues.
Here are some key bills that affect the Special Olympics Indiana community:
- Contact House Public Health Committee members and ask for their support of HB 1689 and HB 1262.
- Email Governor Braun or call (317) 232-4567 about HB 1414 and the critical need to safeguard access to ABA therapy for individuals with disabilities.
- Express your support to the House Ways and Means Committee for the MedWorks Program and an amendment that will allow people with disabilities to work to their full potential without unnecessary barriers. Also, ask for their support of funding in the state budget bill to address waiting lists for Medicaid Waiver services.
Every call and email makes a difference.
State Budget Bill
In his State of the State Address, Gov. Braun put forth his priorities but notably Medicaid was not mentioned.
Although the Medicaid Forecast is fully funded in the current version of HB 1001, there are no additional dollars currently put in place to eliminate the waiting list for any of the Medicaid Waivers.
Call the governor at the number above to make your voice heard.
Legislative Roundup
Here are some other bills to keep an eye on.
HB 1262 – Home and Community-Based Services Waivers
Requires FSSA to request changes to Medicaid Waivers so that a spouse’s income and resources are not counted when determining eligibility for home and community-based services.
This bill addresses the “marriage penalty,” ensuring that individuals seeking home and community-based services are not unfairly penalized based on their spouse’s income and resources, promoting fairness and support for married couples. This bill was referred to the House Public Health Committee. We will track its progress and share updates as it advances.
Contact Chairman Barrett and your state representative and let them know why this issue is important to you and your family.
***
Amends the definition of countable resources for purposes of the Medicaid Buy-In program. Removes consideration of income in determining an individual’s eligibility for participation in the program. Requires FSSA to apply for a state plan amendment or waiver to implement the provision. Increases the maximum age to be eligible for participation in the program from 64 to 67 years of age. Makes other changes to the program.
Please contact your state representative and House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Thompson to urge their support of an amendment that will provide the opportunity for thousands of people with disabilities to work to their full potential while also allowing them to have access to important Medicaid benefits.
***
Requires FSSA to study and prepare a report regarding ABA therapy services utilization and impact regarding proposed changes announced in December (limit to 30 hours a week/limit to 3 years). Prohibits FSSA from amending the Medicaid State Plan regarding ABA therapy services until the report is prepared and provided to appropriate committees no later than August 1, 2025. Assigned to the House Public Health Committee.
During the FSSA Secretary’s presentation to the House Ways and Means Committee on Thursday evening, he mentioned that it is his intent to move forward with a Medicaid State Plan Amendment to limit ABA services to 30 hours a week and a cap of 3 years. He also committed to continuing the conversation on this issue with a planned Task Force to meet this summer to talk through issues and create solutions to stabilize the growth of this service within Medicaid.
Email Governor Braun or call (317) 232-4567 and express your concerns about these arbitrary limitations that will have an impact on the future of our children.