HI HCR11

Encourages the Med-QUEST Division of the Department of Human Services to implement an income disregard program allowing Medicaid recipients with disabilities to earn income above poverty levels while retaining Medicaid coverage.

Cites that 17.5 percent of persons with disabilities were employed in 2015 compared to 65 percent of persons without disabilities, and 28.2 percent of working-age individuals with disabilities lived in poverty in 2014.

Notes that workers with disabilities often must limit income and assets to poverty levels to maintain Medicaid coverage, creating a barrier to employment.

States that an income disregard program would enable individuals with disabilities to seek or maintain gainful employment while retaining necessary Medicaid benefits and supports.

Directs transmission of the resolution to the Director of Human Services and Administrator of the Med-QUEST Division.