Pickett’s Bill to Ensure Continued CHIP Coverage for Thousands of Pennsylvania Children Gains Committee Approval
HARRISBURG – Legislation that would halt a new bidding procedure for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), sponsored by Reps. Tina Pickett (R-Bradford/Sullivan/Susquehanna) and Tony DeLuca (D-Allegheny), today was unanimously approved by the House Insurance Committee. Pickett and DeLuca are the majority and minority chairmen, respectively, of the committee.
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House Bill 2585 would prevent the Department of Human Services (DHS), which administers the CHIP program, from implementing a new bidding process that has the potential of disrupting insurance coverage for thousands of young people and families across the Commonwealth who depend on it,” said Pickett. “Our bill addresses the attempt by DHS to restrict their choices.”
Specifically, the legislation would prohibit DHS from developing or using bidding or service zones that limit a health service corporation or hospital plan corporation contractor from submitting a bid. It also would require DHS to accept a solicitation or bid from such an organization.
CHIP provides health care coverage to uninsured children and teens who are not eligible for or enrolled in Medical Assistance.
House Bill 2585 will next be considered by the full House of Representatives.