S.2064 - Helping Tobacco Users Quit Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.2064, the "Helping Tobacco Users Quit Act," aims to amend Titles XIX and XXI of the Social Security Act to expand coverage of comprehensive tobacco cessation services under Medicaid and CHIP. The bill mandates coverage for counseling and pharmacotherapy, including FDA-approved prescription and non-prescription agents, for tobacco cessation. It also establishes a temporary enhanced Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) of 90% for these services for five years following enactment.
Expected Effects
The bill will likely increase access to tobacco cessation services for Medicaid and CHIP beneficiaries. This will be achieved by removing cost-sharing requirements and prior authorization for tobacco cessation drugs. Furthermore, the bill includes provisions for state monitoring and outreach campaigns to promote the use of these services.
Potential Benefits
- Increased access to tobacco cessation services for low-income individuals and children.
- Improved public health outcomes through reduced tobacco use.
- Potential reduction in long-term healthcare costs associated with tobacco-related illnesses.
- Enhanced federal funding for state Medicaid and CHIP programs related to tobacco cessation.
- Promotion of evidence-based tobacco cessation practices through adherence to clinical guidelines.
Potential Disadvantages
- Increased short-term costs for Medicaid and CHIP programs.
- Potential administrative burden for states in implementing and monitoring the new requirements.
- Possible increase in demand for cessation services, potentially straining existing resources.
- Risk of ineffective implementation if outreach campaigns are not well-designed or targeted.
- Potential for increased federal spending, contributing to the national debt.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the General Welfare Clause (Article I, Section 8) of the Constitution, as it aims to promote the health and well-being of citizens by providing access to tobacco cessation services. The expansion of Medicaid and CHIP falls under Congress's power to tax and spend for the general welfare. The bill does not appear to infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).