INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana lawmakers are trying to tackle a nearly $1 billion Medicaid funding gap. One idea is to bring back work requirements for Medicaid recipients.
State Rep. Hal Slager R-Schererville introduced a bill to require certain Medicaid users, aged 19-64, to work, volunteer, or participate in a job training program for at least 20 hours a week to stay eligible. People can mix these activities to meet the 20-hour requirement, as long as the Family and Social Services Administration FSSA approves.
Exceptions would be made for pregnant women, caregivers for young children or disabled family members, those medically unfit for work, and people in substance abuse recovery programs.
“We don’t want to deny benefits to those who truly need them, Slager said, adding that he hopes the changes encourage independence rather than reliance on government aid. Currently, about one-third of Indiana residents are on Medicaid.
However, Indiana House Democrats warn the bill could put thousands at risk of losing health coverage.
“It’s already complicated to get and keep Medicaid, said State Rep. Robin Shackleford D-Indianapolis. She also noted that long-term care costs are the biggest driver of Medicaid expenses, and work requirements wouldn’t address that issue.
State Rep. Maureen Bauer D-South Bend criticized the proposal, saying it’s not worth risking people’s health to fix a budgeting mistake. She pointed out Indiana hasn’t fully explained the $1 billion error in Medicaid planning.