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HB 1004

RELATING TO HEALTH CARE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Nadine Nakamura

House Bill 1004 extends Medicaid coverage for postpartum mothers in Arkansas to one year, improving health outcomes for low-income families after childbirth.

Reported from HLT (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 512) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to JHA.
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Bill Summary · HB 1004

Summary of House Bill 1004 (HB 1004)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1004 aims to enhance maternal health care by requiring Medicaid coverage for postpartum mothers for one year following childbirth. This initiative is designed to improve health outcomes for mothers and their newborns by ensuring continued access to necessary medical services during the critical postpartum period.

Key Provisions

  • Extension of Medicaid Coverage: The bill mandates that postpartum Medicaid coverage for mothers be extended to one year after giving birth.
  • Eligibility:
    • If a mother qualifies for the Arkansas Health and Opportunity for Me Act of 2021, the extended coverage will be provided under that program.
    • If she does not qualify, coverage will be provided through the traditional Arkansas Medicaid Program.
  • Federal Approval: The Arkansas Department of Human Services is tasked with taking necessary actions, including applying for state plan amendments or waivers, to secure federal approval for this extended coverage.
  • Funding Request: The bill requests that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services utilize Children's Health Insurance Program funding to support this initiative.

Fiscal Impact

The estimated fiscal impact for the implementation of HB 1004 includes:
- Total Estimated Cost: Approximately $11,276,460 for the fiscal year 2024, covering an additional 10 months of postpartum care.
- Federal and State Shares:
- Federal share estimated at $8,547,218.
- State share estimated at $2,729,242.
- The bill is projected to cost $339,000 less in state share than traditional Medicaid funding methods.

Affected Population

The primary beneficiaries of this bill are postpartum mothers in Arkansas, particularly those who are low-income and rely on Medicaid for health care services. The extension of coverage is expected to positively impact maternal and infant health outcomes.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: November 20, 2024
  • Amendment Adopted: March 31, 2025
  • Passed House: April 1, 2025
  • Referred to Senate Committee: April 2, 2025
  • Died in Senate Committee: May 5, 2025

Conclusion

HB 1004 represents a significant step towards improving maternal health care in Arkansas by extending Medicaid coverage for postpartum mothers. The bill's provisions aim to ensure that mothers receive the necessary medical support during the critical year following childbirth, thereby promoting better health outcomes for both mothers and their children.

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

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