The U.S. Census Bureau reported recently that both the percentage and number of people without health insurance decreased in 2007. There was actually a drop in private coverage, but it was more than offset by increased coverage through government health insurance programs. Meanwhile, the economy has taken a turn for the worse, threatening to undo gains in health coverage and straining state budgets. Read more »
Despite the economic downturn, a few states--including Indiana, New Jersey, and Illinois--are continuing to pursue coverage expansions. Read more »
Beginning October 1, Indiana raised the income eligibility for its SCHIP program from 200 percent to 250 percent of the federal poverty level, about $53,000 for a family of four. Read more »
In July, New Jersey Governor Jon Corzine signed into law comprehensive health reform that moves the state toward universal access to coverage. It includes a "Kids First" mandate: beginning July 2009, all residents up to age 19 will be required to have health coverage. Read more »
Beginning January 1, 2009, Illinois parents will be able to keep their unmarried children on their health insurance plans until they reach age 26, or age 30 if they are military veterans. This could allow up to 300,000 young adults to stay on their parents' insurance plans. Read more »
In August 2007, CMS issued a directive that limits states' ability to expand SCHIP to cover children in families with income above 250 percent of the federal poverty level. On September 29, 2008, lawyers for CMS told a U.S. District Court judge the directive was only meant to be "policy guidance." However, the directive has not been rescinded, leaving states uncertain about how to plan for the future. Read more »