HI SCR183

Request that the Department of Human Services study providing Medicaid, CHIP, or similar health insurance coverage to all children and pregnant persons who would qualify for coverage except for their immigration status.

Study must examine health care opportunities, resources, and costs associated with providing coverage to these populations, including input from immigrant health care providers, social service providers, and advocacy groups.

Department must submit findings and any proposed legislation to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2024 Regular Session convenes.

Background notes that Hawaii has approximately 41,246 undocumented residents (roughly 11,000 uninsured), who paid an estimated $98 million in federal, state, and local taxes in 2018; 25 states provide prenatal care coverage and 11 states provide CHIP or Medicaid-like benefits regardless of immigration status.

Each dollar spent on Medicaid for children generates at least $12.66 in benefits according to a 2021 study, while lack of prenatal care increases premature birth complications and costs taxpayers up to $500,000 to $1,000,000 per case.