HI HCR147

Urges consideration of Medicaid expansion to provide insurance coverage for Hawaii residents earning between 133% and 200% of the federal poverty level (the "gap group").

Notes that on July 1, 2012, individuals in Hawaii earning above 133% of the federal poverty level were dropped from Medicaid coverage and left uninsured.

Identifies the gap group as working poor unlikely to afford health insurance through the Hawaii Health Connector and having complex health care needs better suited to Medicaid benefits than commercial insurance.

States that the federal government will fund 100% of the Medicaid expansion for this population and that the Compacts of Free Association population represents minimal added state cost.

Directs transmission of the resolution to the Governor, Director of Health, Director of Human Services, Director of Commerce and Consumer Affairs, Insurance Commissioner, and Executive Director of the Hawaii Health Connector.