AR HB1966

Reinstates Medicaid coverage in the Arkansas Works Program for approximately 18,000 individuals who lost coverage due to failure to meet work requirements implemented between June 1, 2018 and January 1, 2019.

Requires the Department of Human Services to automatically reinstate coverage without requiring individuals to reapply following the March 27, 2019 federal court decision in Gresham v. Azar that declared the work requirement "arbitrary and capricious."

Mandates notification of affected individuals through mail, telephone, and email informing them that the work requirement was ruled unlawful and their coverage has been reinstated.

Requires publication of notice in state newspapers and on the department's website regarding the federal court decision, nullification of the work requirement, and reinstatement of affected individuals.

Declares an emergency effective upon Governor's approval to ensure timely reinstatement of coverage for low-income and vulnerable populations without additional steps required by individuals.