FL S0646

Recognizes a health insurance coverage gap for young adults aged 18 to 26 who cannot obtain coverage through a parent, employer, or Medicaid due to income eligibility criteria, leaving behavioral health services and primary/preventative care inaccessible

Requires the Agency for Health Care Administration, in consultation with the Commission on Mental Health and Substance Abuse, to study the potential impacts of adjusting Medicaid income eligibility to cover young adults aged 18 to 26 in the coverage gap

The study must estimate the number of affected young adults using data from the preceding 5 years, project additional costs to the Medicaid program, and identify any correlation between lack of coverage and increased use of urgent care and emergency room services

The agency must identify evidence-based interventions, develop a strategic approach for at-risk populations, and recommend whether Medicaid can sustain expanded income eligibility criteria for this age group

A report of findings and recommendations must be submitted to the Governor, Senate President, and House Speaker by January 1, 2024