Healthcare (Children's Health)

HD 2862 establishes a new MassHealth program providing comprehensive health coverage to children and young adults under 21 in Massachusetts who are residents but cannot access standard Medicaid (Title XIX) or CHIP (Title XXI) benefits solely due to immigration status. It directly affects low-income immigrant youth who previously faced coverage barriers based on their immigration status. The bill mandates that benefits under this program be equivalent to those available under federal Medicaid/CHIP for similar income and age groups. Crucially, the program must maximize federal funding, but eligibility and benefits cannot be reduced if federal funds become unavailable.

This bill requires the state to establish health care quality standards for children and youth in state custody, specifically those in Department of Youth Services facilities. It directly affects minors under state care in residential programs or group homes. The key provision mandates that health care services meet defined quality benchmarks, including regular health screenings and mental health support. The law aims to ensure consistent, high-quality medical and psychological care for this vulnerable population.