H.R. 139 Summary

• Requests the State Auditor conduct a review of effects on Compact of Free Association (COFA) migrants in Hawaii resulting from the March 1, 2015 transfer of Medicaid coverage to Hawaii Health Connector plans for non-pregnant, non-aged, non-blind, and non-disabled adult noncitizens.

• Approximately 7,500 COFA residents and 1,000 other lawfully present noncitizens will be affected by the Medicaid termination and required to purchase coverage through the Hawaii Health Connector.

• Directs the Auditor to analyze cost implications including increased emergency room usage, 911/EMS services, dialysis utilization, mortality and morbidity rates, and uncompensated care costs to hospitals and health centers.

• Requires identification of financing mechanisms to cover premiums and copays for affected populations, including redirecting the estimated $27,000,000 in annual Medicaid savings and accessing federal Compact Impact funding.

• Auditor must report findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2017 Regular Session convening.