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 other children up to age 19, including former foster youth up to age 26. The bill also mandates states to update contact information for enrolled individuals to ensure they are informed about their continuous eligibility.
Expected Effects
This act will likely increase healthcare access and stability for children and former foster youth by reducing gaps in coverage. It also places additional administrative requirements on states to maintain updated contact information for enrollees. The changes aim to provide more consistent healthcare coverage 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 under Medicaid to 24 months.
- Provides continuous Medicaid coverage for former foster youth up to age 26.
- Requires states to actively update contact information for enrollees to inform them of their eligibility status.
- Reduces administrative burdens on families by minimizing the need for frequent eligibility re-determinations.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased administrative burden on states to track and update contact information.
- Potential for increased costs to states due to extended eligibility periods.
- Possible complexities in transitioning children between CHIP and Medicaid programs.
- May require additional federal oversight to ensure states comply with the new requirements.
- Could lead to some individuals remaining on Medicaid/CHIP even if their circumstances change and they become eligible for other forms of insurance.
Constitutional Alignment
The "Keep Kids Covered Act" appears to align with the Constitution's broad mandate to "promote the general Welfare" (Preamble). Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare, which includes providing healthcare to vulnerable populations. The act falls under Congress's authority to regulate interstate commerce through the Social Security Act, as healthcare and insurance have significant economic impacts. There are no apparent infringements on individual liberties or states' rights that would raise constitutional concerns.
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).