An Act to amend 49.45 (19) (a), 49.45 (19) (c), 767.804 (3) (d) 1., 767.805 (4) (d) 1. and 767.89 (3) (e) 1.; to create 49.22 (9m) of the statutes; Relating to: eliminating recovery by the state for birth expenses paid through the Medical Assistance program. (FE)
Impact
By eliminating the state's ability to recover such expenses, SB1162 is poised to significantly alter the legal landscape surrounding paternity and financial responsibility for childbirth costs in the state. Proponents argue that this bill supports low-income families by preventing unexpected financial liabilities that could arise for fathers, thereby easing their potential burden during an already challenging time. It aims to enhance stability for families receiving assistance while ensuring that children have access to healthcare without additional economic pressures on parents.
Summary
Senate Bill 1162 aims to amend existing laws related to the recovery of birth expenses under the Medical Assistance program in Wisconsin. Specifically, the bill prohibits the state from seeking recovery of any birth expenses accrued for an unmarried individual who received Medical Assistance at the time of childbirth. Additionally, it restricts courts from issuing orders mandating that fathers contribute to these expenses, which were previously required under state law. This change is intended to relieve financial burdens on fathers who may struggle to meet these obligations, especially given that the recipients of Medical Assistance are typically in vulnerable economic situations.
Contention
There may be points of contention regarding how this bill would affect existing obligations under paternity law. Detractors might express concern that eliminating the recovery of expenses could lead to more significant financial implications for the Medical Assistance program, potentially affecting the funding and support available for other families in need. Moreover, some legal experts and advocates for children's rights might argue that this approach could discourage responsible parenting and establish a precedent where financial accountability is diminished for non-marital relationships, thereby complicating future legal interpretations related to support obligations.
Crossfiled
An Act to amend 49.45 (19) (a), 49.45 (19) (c), 767.804 (3) (d) 1., 767.805 (4) (d) 1. and 767.89 (3) (e) 1.; to create 49.22 (9m) of the statutes; Relating to: eliminating recovery by the state for birth expenses paid through the Medical Assistance program. (FE)
A BILL to amend and reenact § 32.1-326.1 of the Code of Virginia and to repeal § 32.1-327 of the Code of Virginia, relating to Department of Medical Assistance Services; Medicaid estate recoveries.
An Act to amend and reenact §§ 19.2-165.1, 19.2-368.2, 19.2-368.3, and 19.2-368.11:1 of the Code of Virginia, relating to victims of crime; reimbursement for expenses; work group.
An Act to amend and reenact §§ 38.2-107.2, 38.2-135, 38.2-316, and 38.2-1800 of the Code of Virginia and to amend the Code of Virginia by adding a section numbered 38.2-107.3 and by adding in Title 60.2 a chapter numbered 8, consisting of sections numbered 60.2-800 through 60.2-818, relating to paid family and medical leave insurance program established; notice requirements; civil action; penalty.
An Act to amend and reenact § 32.1-325 of the Code of Virginia, relating to Department of Medical Assistance Services; state plan for medical assistance services; doula care.
An Act to amend and reenact §§ 19.2-327.15 through 19.2-327.19 of the Code of Virginia, relating to issuance of vacatur for victims of human trafficking.