Rep. Brennan's Bipartisan Medicaid Bill Passed Ohio House of Representatives

COLUMBUS — State Reps. Sean Patrick Brennan (D-Parma) and Jeff LaRe (R-Violet Twp) today announced the bipartisan passage of House Bill (HB) 130 out of the Ohio House of Representatives. The bill will require the Department of Medicaid to take a consumer-focused approach and notify Ohioans in layman’s terms about the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program at the time of application and when they are an approved Medicaid recipient.

“One of my top priorities as an elected official is to make the lives of those I serve better and ensure their government is working for them. This is a consumer-protection bill calling for stronger disclosure requirements so that no Ohioan and their families are caught off guard by a program meant to help them. Transparency allows for more informed decisions and ultimately leads to better outcomes for everyone. I am thankful to Representative LaRe for allowing me to join him on this important piece of legislation,” said Rep. Brennan.

By requiring that Medicaid applicants receive clear, written explanations of the Estate Recovery Program both at the time of application and upon approval, we can ensure that individuals and families can make fully informed financial decisions. The notifications must include how the program functions, outlining specific scenarios and a delineation of what is recoverable. Transparency allows families to explore legal options, such as estate planning strategies, to protect assets while still complying with Medicaid rules.

Many Ohioans have been adversely affected due to lack of notification and comprehensive understanding of the estate recovery program. Many Medicaid recipients are under the impression that they are receiving free healthcare insurance when, in reality, when they pass their entire estate is at risk of recovery by the state of Ohio, including their home which especially a problem when a loved one resides in the same residence. HB 130 would ensure that individuals are made aware not just once but twice in the process before becoming a Medicaid recipient who may be subject to estate recovery. 

Reps. Brennan and LaRe believe that their bill will lead to greater transparency, gives Ohioans the opportunity to make more informed financial decisions regarding their estate and healthcare, and restores public trust in those who are working for the people.

“Our bill is pro-consumer and will benefit many Ohioans, including giving them the information to understand what the Medicaid Estate Recovery Program is before making any decisions about their care and their estate. For many, Medicaid eligibility is a matter of necessity due to lack of resources and need for long term care. This bill will ensure those folks are adequately informed,” said Rep. Brennan.

HB 130 passed the Ohio House of Representatives by a vote of 92-0. The bill has been sent to the Ohio Senate for consideration. Should it pass in the Senate chamber, it will be sent to Governor DeWine for his signature.