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Bill

HB 1619

TO SET ADMINISTRATION FEES UNDER THE ARKANSAS MEDICAID PROGRAM FOR IMMUNIZATIONS AND MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES FOR RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS DISEASE; AND TO PROVIDE CIVIL IMMUNITY.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Zack Gramlich and 1 co-sponsor

Act 634 ensures Arkansas Medicaid covers full administration fees for RSV treatments and grants civil immunity to providers, improving access for infants and toddlers.

Notification that HB1619 is now Act 634
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 1619

Summary of House Bill 1619 (Act 634)

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 1619, now known as Act 634, aims to establish administration fees under the Arkansas Medicaid Program specifically for immunizations and monoclonal antibodies targeting Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) disease. The bill also seeks to provide civil immunity to healthcare providers involved in administering these treatments.

Key Provisions

  1. Administration Fees:

    • The Arkansas Medicaid Program will reimburse an administration fee equal to 100% of the maximum administration fee set by the Vaccines for Children Program for the administration of RSV immunizations and monoclonal antibodies.
    • This applies to infants and toddlers receiving these treatments, regardless of their Medicaid enrollment category.

  2. Civil Immunity:

    • Healthcare providers (individuals or entities) who prescribe, dispense, or administer RSV immunizations or monoclonal antibodies will be granted civil immunity from liability.
    • Exceptions to this immunity include cases of gross negligence, recklessness, or actions not taken in good faith.

  3. Implementation:

    • The Arkansas Department of Human Services is tasked with applying for any necessary federal waivers or amendments to implement the provisions of this bill.

Fiscal Impact

  • The estimated total computable cost for the implementation of this bill is $23,180, with a state share of approximately $7,021.
  • The Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for this program is 69.71%, which translates to a federal share of $16,158.

Affected Parties

  • Healthcare Providers: Physicians, clinics, and hospitals administering RSV treatments will benefit from the civil immunity provisions.
  • Patients: Infants and toddlers eligible for Medicaid will have access to RSV immunizations and monoclonal antibodies without additional financial burden on their families.

Procedural Timeline

  • Introduced: February 27, 2025
  • House Actions:
    • Passed on March 19, 2025
    • Returned from committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation on March 18, 2025
  • Senate Actions:
    • Passed on April 10, 2025
    • Returned from committee with a "Do Pass" recommendation on March 20, 2025
  • Finalization: The bill was officially enacted as Act 634 on April 16, 2025.

Conclusion

House Bill 1619 (Act 634) represents a significant step in enhancing the Arkansas Medicaid Program's response to RSV disease by establishing fair administration fees and protecting healthcare providers from civil liability. This legislation is expected to improve access to critical immunizations and treatments for vulnerable populations, particularly infants and toddlers.

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

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