MS HB259

Expands Medicaid coverage to individuals under 65 years of age who are not pregnant, not enrolled in Medicare, and have income not exceeding 133% of the federal poverty level, as authorized under the Affordable Care Act.

Extends Medicaid coverage to children under 19 years of age with family income between 133% and 200% of the federal poverty level under the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

Repeals the Mississippi Children's Health Insurance Program Act (sections 41-86-1, 41-86-5, 41-86-7, 41-86-9, 41-86-11, 41-86-13, and 41-86-15) and consolidates CHIP coverage into the main Medicaid statute.

Requires eligible individuals to receive benchmark coverage or benchmark equivalent coverage as defined under federal law.

Effective date is July 1, 2016.