Sen. Andy Kim, D-N.J., introduced his “MediKids” bill July 21, which would promise healthcare coverage for those up to 26 years old.
The law would amend the Social Security Act to make everyone under 26 eligible for Medicaid and to require states to automatically enroll newborns going forward. The legislation would also extend the age range for Medicaid’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment benefit, which currently ensures appropriate health services for those up to 21 years old. The coverage would not depend on a child’s or young adult’s immigration status.
If a child already has adequate coverage, such as through an employer-sponsored plan, a guardian can opt them out. Once the child turns 18, they can opt themselves out.
The bill would also set the federal medical assistance percentage at 100% for this newly eligible population. The enhanced match applies specifically to individuals who would not have qualified for full Medicaid benefits under a state’s plan as it existed on Jan. 1, 2025.
Mr. Kim’s news release said 4.4 million children in America lack health coverage, and one-third are underinsured.
“Millions of children are falling through the cracks of our healthcare system, and we are the only ones who can stand up and help,” Mr. Kim said. “I built MediKids to be a step we can take right now to guarantee every single child in the United States the care they need, when they need it.”
Provisions would mostly take effect two years after enactment.
The bill comes as H.R. 1 sets up Medicaid work requirements, heightened eligibility scrutiny and budget cuts.
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