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HF 607

A bill for an act relating to eligibility of pregnant women and infants for the Medicaid program.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jerome Amos and 22 co-sponsors

Bill HF 607 expands Medicaid eligibility for pregnant women and infants to 375% of poverty, ensuring 12 months of postpartum coverage to improve health outcomes.

Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services.
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Bill Summary · HF 607

Summary of Bill HF 607

Title: A bill for an act relating to eligibility of pregnant women and infants for the Medicaid program.
Status: Introduced, referred to Health and Human Services.
Introduced Date: February 26, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject Areas: Children, Medical Assistance, Medical Care, Newborn Children, Postpartum Care, Public Assistance

Purpose and Intent

Bill HF 607 aims to expand the eligibility criteria for pregnant women and infants under the Medicaid program. The primary intent is to increase access to healthcare for these vulnerable populations by raising the income eligibility threshold and ensuring continuous postpartum coverage.

Key Provisions

  1. Increased Income Eligibility:

    • The bill proposes to raise the income eligibility level for pregnant women and infants from 215% to 375% of the federal poverty level. This change allows more families to qualify for Medicaid assistance.

  2. Continuous Postpartum Coverage:

    • The bill mandates that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) submit a Medicaid state plan amendment to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide 12 months of continuous postpartum eligibility for women whose family income is at or below 375% of the federal poverty level. This provision is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

  3. Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) Amendment:

    • HHS is also required to submit a state plan amendment for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to update infant eligibility in line with the new provisions of the bill, also effective from January 1, 2026.

Impact

  • Who Will Be Affected:

    • The bill primarily affects pregnant women and infants from families with incomes up to 375% of the federal poverty level, significantly broadening access to Medicaid services.
    • Healthcare providers and facilities may also see an increase in patients eligible for Medicaid, which could impact service delivery and funding.

  • Healthcare Access:

    • By increasing eligibility and ensuring continuous coverage postpartum, the bill aims to improve maternal and infant health outcomes, reduce healthcare disparities, and provide essential medical care during critical periods.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on February 26, 2025, and has been referred to the Health and Human Services committee for further consideration. The proposed changes are set to take effect on January 1, 2026, pending approval from CMS.

This summary provides an overview of the essential elements of Bill HF 607, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and potential impact on healthcare access for pregnant women and infants.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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