AR HB1311

Terminates enrollment and coverage under the Health Care Independence Program on December 31, 2016, or earlier if subsequent legislation ends the program sooner.

Prohibits the Department of Human Services from accepting new applications for the Health Care Independence Program on and after July 1, 2016.

Requires persons enrolled in the Health Care Independence Program who were previously eligible for traditional Medicaid or a Medicaid waiver program before October 1, 2013, to continue coverage under the traditional Medicaid program.

Directs the department to submit state plan amendments or federal waivers to eliminate eligibility for qualified family members under federal regulations (42 C.F.R. § 435.119) and to restore Medicaid programs that were ended due to implementation of the Health Care Independence Program, subject to General Assembly and Governor approval.

Declares an emergency, making the act effective upon Governor approval, expiration of the veto period, or veto override.