Signed by Governor Sam Brownback

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to adopt a conference report that amends eligibility for assistance programs such as Medicaid.

Highlights:

• Requires Medicaid patients to use less expensive drugs or treatments for at least 30 days to determine if they may be effective before moving to a more expensive treatment (Sec. 4).

• Authorizes an individual to change a drug or therapy before 30 days if 1 of the following criteria is met (Sec. 4):

• The patient has multiple sclerosis;

• The current medication will likely cause harm to the patient;

• The medication recommended first has proven to be ineffective; or

• Another medication has proven to be stable in treating the patient..   

• Reduces the eligibility time period for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) from 36 months to 24 months (Sec. 2).  

• Specifies that if a hardship grant has been given to an individual, they will qualify for TANF for up to 36 months (Sec. 2).  

Full Bill Text

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to adopt a conference report that amends eligibility for assistance programs such as Medicaid.

Highlights:

• Requires Medicaid patients to use less expensive drugs or treatments for at least 30 days to determine if they may be effective before moving to a more expensive treatment (Sec. 4).

• Authorizes an individual to change a drug or therapy before 30 days if 1 of the following criteria is met (Sec. 4):

• The patient has multiple sclerosis;

• The current medication will likely cause harm to the patient;

• The medication recommended first has proven to be ineffective; or

• Another medication has proven to be stable in treating the patient..   

• Reduces the eligibility time period for Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) from 36 months to 24 months (Sec. 2).  

• Specifies that if a hardship grant has been given to an individual, they will qualify for TANF for up to 36 months (Sec. 2).  

Full Bill Text