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Bill

H 199

REFUGEES – Adds to existing law to establish provisions regarding refugee medical assistance.

68th Legislature, 1st Regular Session (2025)

House Bill H 199 ensures medical assistance for Idaho refugees earning below 133% of federal poverty guidelines, streamlining healthcare access for this vulnerable group.

Reported Signed by Governor on March 25, 2025 Session Law Chapter 166 Effective: 07/01/2025; 07/01/2025 IDAPA Sunset Clause - SECTION 2
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Bill Summary · H 199

Summary of House Bill H 199: Refugee Medical Assistance Act

Purpose and Intent

House Bill H 199 aims to establish provisions regarding medical assistance for refugees in Idaho. The bill amends Title 56 of the Idaho Code by adding a new chapter dedicated to the Refugee Medical Assistance Act. Its primary goal is to define eligibility criteria, outline the limitations on benefits, and clarify administrative rules related to refugee medical assistance.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important provisions:

  1. Short Title: The new chapter will be known as the "Refugee Medical Assistance Act."

  2. Definitions:

    • Department: Refers to the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare.
    • Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG): Annual guidelines issued by the Department of Health and Human Services.
    • I-94: An alien identification card for refugees.
    • Refugee Medical Assistance Program: Services funded under specific federal laws contingent on federal funding and state spending authority.

  3. Eligibility Criteria:

    • Individuals with refugee status, including those paroled, admitted as conditional entrants, or granted asylum under U.S. immigration laws, are eligible.
    • Afghan and Iraqi special immigrants with specific immigration statuses are also included.
    • Certain Amerasian individuals and their close family members can qualify under specific documentation.

  4. Limitations on Benefits:

    • Medical assistance is available to refugees whose income does not exceed 133% of the federal poverty guidelines.
    • Refugees exceeding this income threshold may deduct medical costs to qualify.
    • Income exclusions include refugee cash assistance and the income of sponsors.

  5. Administrative Rules: The bill declares certain existing administrative rules in IDAPA 16.03.06 null and void effective July 1, 2025.

Impact

The bill will primarily affect refugees residing in Idaho who seek medical assistance. By clearly defining eligibility and benefit limitations, it aims to streamline access to healthcare services for this vulnerable population.

Fiscal Impact

According to the fiscal note, the legislation will not result in any increase or decrease in revenue or additional expenditures at the state or local government levels, indicating a neutral fiscal impact.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 10, 2025
  • Governor's Signature: March 25, 2025
  • Effective Date: July 1, 2025

The bill underwent several legislative actions, including committee reviews and votes in both the House and Senate, before being signed into law by the Governor.

Conclusion

House Bill H 199 establishes a structured approach to refugee medical assistance in Idaho, aiming to enhance access to healthcare for refugees while ensuring compliance with federal guidelines. The effective date of July 1, 2025, allows for the implementation of the new provisions and the nullification of outdated administrative rules.

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

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