HI HB219

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 without losing Medicaid eligibility.

Designates the earned income disregard program as an intermediate step toward implementing a full Medicaid buy-in program in the future.

Directs the Department to evaluate the program annually and assess feasibility of implementing a full Medicaid buy-in program.

Requires the Department to submit progress reports to the legislature no later than 20 days before the regular sessions in 2020, 2021, and 2022, including 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; program takes effect upon Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approval.