Restoring Essential Healthcare Act
Summary
The "Restoring Essential Healthcare Act" (S. 2524) aims to repeal Section 71113 of Public Law 119-21, which currently prohibits Medicaid payments to certain entities. This bill seeks to retroactively allow Medicaid payments to these entities for services provided during the period when the prohibition was in effect. The bill was introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Finance.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the Restoring Essential Healthcare Act would reinstate Medicaid payments to entities previously prohibited under Public Law 119-21. This would provide financial relief to those entities and potentially expand access to healthcare services for Medicaid recipients. The change is retroactive, covering the period when the prohibition was active.
Potential Benefits
- Restores funding to healthcare providers previously affected by the prohibition.
- Potentially increases access to healthcare services for Medicaid recipients.
- Corrects unintended consequences of the previous law (Public Law 119-21).
- Ensures consistent application of Medicaid payments based on service provision.
- May improve the financial stability of healthcare entities serving vulnerable populations.
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase overall Medicaid spending.
- Could potentially direct funds to entities with a history of non-compliance or questionable practices (depending on the definition of "prohibited entities").
- May face opposition from those who supported the original prohibition.
- Potential for moral hazard if entities perceive that prohibitions will be retroactively repealed.
- Requires careful monitoring to ensure appropriate use of restored funds.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Article I, Section 8 grants Congress the power to collect taxes and provide for the general welfare of the United States. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
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).