MS HB1227

Directs the Executive Director of the Division of Medicaid to apply for a federal Section 1115 waiver within 90 days allowing the state to implement various Medicaid program changes.

Authorizes potential policy changes including monthly eligibility redetermination, point-of-service verification, elimination of retroactive eligibility, enrollment caps, lifetime service limits, work requirements, and increased cost-sharing of at least $25 monthly or 5% of income.

Permits experimentation with direct primary care arrangements, telemedicine expansion, reduced transportation benefits, higher emergency department copayments, and copayments for missed appointments.

Requires annual waiver applications by February 1 beginning in 2019, with consultation with House and Senate Medicaid Committee chairs at least 60 days before submission.

Mandates the executive director to confirm waiver submission by March 1 each year to the Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Speaker, and Medicaid Committee chairs, and to establish a target for reducing total annual Medicaid expenditures.