WeVote

Bill

Bill

HB 751

Community Health, Department of; submit a Section 1115 waiver request to the United States Department of Health and Human Services for Medicare and Medicaid Services; authorize

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Debbie Buckner and 5 co-sponsors

House Bill 751 allows Georgia to expand Medicaid by including childcare and caregiving as qualifying activities, boosting support for families and healthcare access.

House Second Readers
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 751

Summary of House Bill 751

Bill Number: HB 751
Title: Community Health, Department of; submit a Section 1115 waiver request to the United States Department of Health and Human Services for Medicare and Medicaid Services; authorize
Status: House Second Readers
Introduced: March 10, 2025

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 751 aims to authorize the Georgia Department of Community Health to submit a Section 1115 waiver request to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). This waiver would allow the state to expand its Medicaid program by including childcare and caregiving as qualifying activities for certain benefits. The intent of the bill is to enhance support for families engaged in caregiving roles, thereby improving access to healthcare services for vulnerable populations.

Key Provisions

  • Waiver Submission: The bill authorizes the Department of Community Health to submit a Section 1115 waiver request by September 30, 2025.

  • Qualifying Activities: The waiver would include:

    • Childcare: Defined as full-time or part-time work by a parent caring for their child or children in their own residence.
    • Caregiving: Defined as full-time or part-time work by a family member caring for an adult child with a disability or an aging parent.
  • Implementation Authority: Upon approval of the waiver, the Department of Community Health is empowered to take all necessary steps to implement the terms and conditions of the waiver.

  • Effective Date: The Act will become effective upon approval by the Governor or upon becoming law without such approval.

  • Repeal of Conflicting Laws: The bill includes a provision to repeal any laws that conflict with its provisions.

Impact

Who Would Be Affected?

  • Families: The bill primarily targets families who provide childcare or caregiving services, potentially increasing their access to Medicaid benefits.

  • Healthcare Providers: Providers may see an increase in patients as more families qualify for Medicaid under the new provisions.

  • State Government: The Department of Community Health will have additional responsibilities in managing the waiver and implementing its provisions.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was introduced on March 10, 2025, and has progressed to the House Second Readers stage as of March 13, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 751 represents a significant step towards expanding Medicaid benefits in Georgia by recognizing the roles of childcare and caregiving. If enacted, it could provide essential support to families, enhance healthcare access, and potentially improve the overall health outcomes for those in caregiving situations.

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

Sign in to ask a question.