HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii could begin cutting some state-funded medical services for Micronesian migrants now that the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a ruling allowing the state to reduce health care coverage of noncitizens. ADVERTISING HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii could
HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii could begin cutting some state-funded medical services for Micronesian migrants now that the U.S. Supreme Court has upheld a ruling allowing the state to reduce health care coverage of noncitizens.
The state could begin cutting services by the end of the week to non-pregnant, adult noncitizens.
The state Department of Health has prepared emergency rules in anticipation of Monday’s ruling.
A federal appeals court ruled in April that Hawaii isn’t required to fund Medicaid for migrants from three Pacific Island nations in Micronesia to make up for reduced federal funding. The ruling said Hawaii has no constitutional obligation to fill a gap left in 1996 when Congress cut health care funding for migrants under the Compact of Free Association.
The compact gives Palau, Marshall Islands and Federated States of Micronesia citizens the right to live and work in the U.S. In exchange, the U.S. military controls extensive strategic land and water in the Pacific Ocean.
“The state will strive to ensure that our neediest residents, including noncitizens, have access to quality health coverage,” Gov. Neil Abercrombie said in a statement Monday.
The health department said state-funded assistance will continue for eligible migrants who are elderly, blind and disabled.
“The state’s plan going forward includes a program that provides Medicaid-like coverage to our neediest, aged, blind and disabled noncitizens,” Human Services Director Patricia McManaman said. “Coverage for children and pregnant adults will remain unchanged.”
Adult noncitizens who aren’t pregnant will be directed to get insurance through the Hawaii Health Connection, and a state-funded program to help very low-income noncitizens pay their share of premiums.
Micronesia officials are hopeful Hawaii’s new governor will continue health services for migrants despite the high court ruling. “We are waiting for a new administration,” said Marshall Islands Consul General Noda Lojkar.
