State Public Option Act: Expanding Medicaid for Affordable Health Coverage
This act aims to expand access to health insurance by allowing individuals to buy into Medicaid, providing a high-quality, low-cost health insurance option. It also seeks to improve the quality of primary care services and increase federal financial support for states. Additionally, the bill mandates coverage for comprehensive sexual and reproductive health services.
Key points
Individuals can buy into Medicaid coverage starting January 1, 2026, if not already enrolled in another health plan.
States can charge premiums and cost-sharing, limited to 8.5% of family income, with eligibility for premium tax credits.
Increased federal financial participation for states to cover administrative and medical costs for new Medicaid enrollees.
Renews and expands higher payment rates for primary care physicians and other providers under Medicaid to improve access.
Mandates coverage for comprehensive sexual and reproductive health care services, including abortion, under Medicaid starting January 1, 2026.
Introduced
Additional Information
Print number: 119_HR_3995
Sponsor: Rep. Schrier, Kim [D-WA-8]
Process start date: 2025-06-12