HI HB1454

Requires the Department of Human Services to implement an earned income disregard program allowing people with disabilities aged 16-64 to disregard 138% of the federal poverty level in earned income when determining Medicaid eligibility.

Department must adopt administrative rules as necessary to implement the program and annually evaluate its effectiveness.

Department must submit reports to the legislature no later than 20 days before the regular sessions of 2020, 2021, and 2022, including findings, recommendations, proposed legislation, and resources needed for a full Medicaid buy-in program.

Department is encouraged to collaborate with the University of Hawaii Center on Disability Studies for technical assistance and program evaluation.

Act takes effect upon gubernatorial approval, with the earned income disregard program taking effect upon approval by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.