HI HB1454

Requires the Department of Human Services to implement an earned income disregard program allowing people with disabilities aged 16-64 to earn income while retaining Medicaid eligibility, using 138% of the federal poverty level or an equivalent method.

Establishes this earned income disregard program as an interim step toward implementing a full Medicaid buy-in program, which Hawaii has not yet adopted despite being one of only four states without such coverage.

Directs the department to annually evaluate the earned income disregard program and assess the viability of implementing a full Medicaid buy-in program.

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

Encourages collaboration with the University of Hawaii Center on Disability Studies for technical assistance and program evaluation; effective upon governor approval and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approval.