TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida Healthy Kids Corporation (FHKC) today celebrates the signing into law of landmark Florida KidCare legislation by Governor Ron DeSantis. House Bill 121 increases the income eligibility limit for subsidized Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) coverage, from 200% to 300% of the federal poverty level, or from $60,000 to $90,000 annually for a family of four. Through the creation of new premium tiers, the bill establishes a glidepath for families by allowing them to keep subsidized coverage as they earn more, so they can pursue financial stability without fear of losing the government help they receive.
Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis said, “Every child in Florida needs access to vital health care services and providing coverage for children of families struggling to make ends meet is one of the best investments our state can make. This bill expands Florida KidCare coverage and ensures families have access to affordable health insurance for children in need. Thank you to Governor DeSantis for your support of this good piece of legislation and to Senator Calatayud, Representative Bartleman, and Representative Trabulsy for all they did this legislative session to advocate for Florida’s children.”
FHKC Board Chair Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos said, “Thank you Governor DeSantis for making House Bill 121 a priority and ensuring more Florida families have the opportunity to give their kids the best foot forward in life. By increasing access to affordable child health care, more working families can count on KidCare to help them climb the ladder toward financial independence. Parents will no longer have to choose between a pay raise and losing affordable health coverage for their kids, giving them the freedom to work toward bigger, better futures for their families.”
House Bill 121 directs FHKC’s Board of Directors to develop the new premium tiers, and those efforts are underway in preparation for a January 1, 2024, implementation date.
For more information about Florida KidCare, visit floridakidcare.org, and for more information about Florida Healthy Kids Corporation, visit healthykids.org
