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Bill

SB 257

Expanding medical assistance eligibility and enacting the healthcare access for working Kansans (HAWK) act.

2025-2026 Regular Session

Kansas bill expands Medicaid eligibility for working individuals through the HAWK Act, potentially increasing healthcare access but raising state budget concerns.

Died in Committee
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Bill Summary · SB 257

Legislative bill overview

SB 257 proposes to expand medical assistance eligibility in Kansas and establishes the Healthcare Access for Working Kansans (HAWK) Act. The bill appears designed to broaden access to state-funded healthcare coverage for working individuals who currently fall outside existing eligibility parameters, though specific income thresholds and coverage details require examination of the full text.

Why is this important

Healthcare access directly affects workforce productivity, financial stability, and public health outcomes. Expanding eligibility could reduce uninsured rates among working Kansans but will have significant budgetary implications for the state's Medicaid program and potentially federal matching funds.

Potential points of contention

  • Program cost and state budget impact: Expansion typically increases expenditures; fiscal projections and funding mechanisms will be debated
  • Work requirements and program design: Questions about whether maintaining employment is a condition, how income is verified, and administrative complexity
  • Scope of coverage: Disagreement likely over which services are covered, prescription drug access, and cost-sharing requirements

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

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