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HJR 24

A JOINT RESOLUTION directing the Cabinet for Health and Family Services to withdraw all waiver applications that have been submitted to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services to establish a community engagement program, and declaring an emergency.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Ken Fleming

Kentucky joint resolution directs immediate withdrawal of a Medicaid waiver application authorizing mandatory community engagement requirements for beneficiaries.

became law without Governor's Signature (Acts Ch. 151)
#effectivedates #emergency #medicaid #stateagencies
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Bill Summary · HJR 24

Legislative bill overview

HJR 24 is a joint resolution directing Kentucky's Cabinet for Health and Family Services to immediately withdraw a pending 1115(a) waiver application submitted to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on June 25, 2025. The waiver application sought to implement a mandatory community engagement program for Medicaid beneficiaries. The resolution declares this action an emergency matter.

Why is this important

The 1115(a) waiver is a federal mechanism allowing states to test alternative Medicaid program designs that deviate from standard federal requirements. Community engagement requirements (such as work, volunteer, or education activities) have been controversial across multiple states, with some successfully implementing them while others faced legal challenges and implementation difficulties. This resolution would prevent Kentucky from proceeding with a program that could affect thousands of Medicaid enrollees' healthcare eligibility.

Potential points of contention

  • Federal authority and state flexibility: Supporters of the waiver argue states need flexibility to design programs; opponents contend such requirements create barriers to healthcare access for vulnerable populations
  • Work/engagement requirement effectiveness and burden: Disagreement over whether community engagement improves outcomes or disproportionately harms disabled, elderly, and economically disadvantaged beneficiaries
  • Implementation timing and process: Questions about why the waiver was submitted without apparent legislative approval, and whether withdrawal represents a reversal of executive policy direction

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

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