South Carolina House Bill H3377

South Carolina 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/14/25
• Refer: 1/14/25

Caption

A JOINT RESOLUTION TO PROVIDE THAT A STATEWIDE ADVISORY REFERENDUM MUST BE CONDUCTED BY THE STATE ELECTION COMMISSION AT THE SAME TIME AS THE 2026 GENERAL ELECTION ON THE QUESTION OF WHETHER SOUTH CAROLINA SHOULD PARTICIPATE IN MEDICAID EXPANSION.

Impact

The bill aims to expand Medicaid access to a broader demographic by increasing the income threshold for eligibility. By conducting the referendum concurrently with the general election, supporters believe that it could encourage voter participation and provide a direct mechanism for the public to express their views on healthcare accessibility. This could potentially lead to an increase in the number of individuals receiving healthcare benefits, thereby improving public health outcomes in the state.

Summary

House Bill H3377 proposes a statewide advisory referendum for the 2026 General Election to determine if South Carolina should participate in Medicaid expansion. It stipulates that if passed, starting January 1, 2028, an adult aged sixty-five years or younger, whose income is at or below 133% of the federal poverty level, will be eligible for Medicaid coverage under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The results of the referendum will be advisory, meaning they will guide future legislative actions but will not be binding.

Contention

However, the bill's advisory nature could be contested, as some legislators and stakeholders may argue that an advisory referendum may not adequately address the needs for healthcare reforms in the state. Critics may point out that expanding Medicaid is a contentious issue, with varying opinions on its economic implications and long-term sustainability. Concerns about funding, state liabilities, and the overall effectiveness of Medicaid expansion could lead to significant debate during the elections and in subsequent legislative sessions.