HI SB2050

Requires the Department of Human Services to implement an earned income disregard program allowing individuals with disabilities aged 16-64 to earn up to 138% of the federal poverty level while retaining Medicaid eligibility.

Establishes the earned income disregard program as an interim step toward implementing a full Medicaid buy-in program, which would provide additional benefits such as asset disregards.

Mandates the department to evaluate the program annually and assess the viability and timeline for implementing a comprehensive Medicaid buy-in program.

Requires the department to submit reports to the legislature no later than 20 days before the regular sessions of 2019, 2020, and 2021 detailing program findings, recommendations, and resources needed for a full buy-in program.

Encourages collaboration with the University of Hawaii Center on Disability Studies for technical assistance and program evaluation.