Keep Kids Covered Act
Summary
The "Keep Kids Covered Act" aims to amend Titles XIX and XXI of the Social Security Act, focusing on continuous eligibility for children under Medicaid and CHIP. It extends continuous eligibility for deemed newborns until age 6 and for children under age 19 and former foster youth. The bill also mandates states to update contact information for enrolled individuals to ensure they are aware of their continuous eligibility.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase healthcare access for children and former foster youth by ensuring continuous coverage under Medicaid and CHIP. States will be required to maintain updated contact information, improving communication about enrollment status. The changes aim to reduce gaps in coverage and improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.
Potential Benefits
- Ensures continuous healthcare coverage for children from birth to age 6 under Medicaid and CHIP.
- Extends continuous eligibility for children aged 6-18 and former foster youth up to age 26.
- Requires states to proactively update contact information for enrolled individuals, improving communication.
- Reduces administrative burdens associated with frequent eligibility redeterminations.
- Potentially improves long-term health outcomes by ensuring consistent access to care.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased costs for states to administer the expanded continuous eligibility programs.
- Potential for increased enrollment and associated financial burdens on the federal government.
- Possible administrative challenges in tracking and maintaining updated contact information for all enrolled individuals.
- May require states to modify existing systems and processes to comply with the new requirements.
- Could lead to some individuals remaining enrolled even if they become eligible for other coverage.
Constitutional Alignment
The "Keep Kids Covered Act" appears to align with the Constitution's general welfare clause, as it aims to improve healthcare access for children and former foster youth. Specifically, the Act falls under Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare, as outlined in Article I, Section 8. The amendments to the Social Security Act are within the scope of existing federal programs and do not appear to infringe on states' rights or individual liberties.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).