An Opportunity for Louisiana’s Families of Children with Disabilities
The Family Opportunity Act, a federal law, would allow low- and middle-income families to access appropriate health care for their child with a disability through the Medicaid program.
The bill provides Medicaid coverage to children less than 19 years of age for families with incomes up to 300% of the federal poverty level (approximately $56,550 for a family of 4).
The child’s disability must meet the Supplemental Security Income definition of disability, or have the potential to meet this definition if appropriate health care services are not provided, or be receiving inpatient psychiatric services.
States may require families to pay monthly premiums based on a sliding scale. If parents have employer-provided health plans, they are required to apply for, enroll in, and pay these premiums (which will reduce State premiums).
The federal law includes a phase-in approach. In the first year, children under the age of 6 will be included. In the next year, children up to age 12 can participate and in the third year, children under the age of 19 can participate.
The bill also authorizes a total of $22 million over 5 years to develop and support family-to-family health information centers in every state (25 centers the first year; 40 centers the second year; and 50 centers by the third year). Centers will be staffed by families and health professionals. They will provide outreach, training, and education.
States need to pass legislation to implement the Act.
$231,613 in State General Funds ($540,431 Federal) are needed for the first year phase-in of the Family Opportunity Act in Louisiana.
