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Stabilizing and Expanding Medicaid Program Funding and Services in Puerto Rico

This Act aims to significantly improve and stabilize the Medicaid healthcare program in Puerto Rico by increasing federal funding. Citizens of Puerto Rico can expect higher standards of care, including better payment rates for hospitals and physicians, and the gradual inclusion of new, essential medical services, such as Hepatitis C drugs and services for qualified Medicare beneficiaries. These changes are designed to bring the quality of healthcare closer to that available in the 50 U.S. states.
Key points
Increased Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for Puerto Rico to 83% for fiscal years 2022-2031, ensuring more stable healthcare funding.
Elimination of the federal spending cap on Medicaid for Puerto Rico starting in fiscal year 2027, removing the risk of running out of funds.
Introduction of program enhancement requirements (e.g., higher rates for hospitals and doctors, inclusion of Hepatitis C drugs) that must be met to maintain full funding.
Mandate for the gradual inclusion of new medical services into the state plan (e.g., home health services, non-emergency transportation) by 2035 to align coverage with the 50 states.
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Expired
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Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_1722
Sponsor: Rep. Velazquez, Nydia M. [D-NY-7]
Process start date: 2021-03-09
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Summarized by: gemini-flash-latest
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Puerto Rico Health Care Fairness, Accountability, and Beneficiary Access Act of 2021

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_1722.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2021-03-09.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Increased Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for Puerto Rico to 83% for fiscal years 2022-2031, ensuring more stable healthcare funding.
  • Elimination of the federal spending cap on Medicaid for Puerto Rico starting in fiscal year 2027, removing the risk of running out of funds.
  • Introduction of program enhancement requirements (e.g., higher rates for hospitals and doctors, inclusion of Hepatitis C drugs) that must be met to maintain full funding.
  • Mandate for the gradual inclusion of new medical services into the state plan (e.g., home health services, non-emergency transportation) by 2035 to align coverage with the 50 states.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. Velazquez, Nydia M. [D-NY-7].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Health.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2026-01-02.

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