State Close-Ups
The following provide a deeper look at selected state initiatives produced by the Center for Children and Families. Information for the policy models was collected through interviews, written reports and program Web sites.
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Louisiana: Expansions, Simplifications and Outreach Louisiana has made steady and substantial progress in expanding eligibility for public health insurance coverage, and enrolling and retaining eligible children. As a result, between 1998 and 2007 the state reduced uninsurance among low-income children by 83 percent. A particular focus on improving renewal processes has resulted in case procedural closure rates that are below 2 percent. |
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North Carolina: Eligibility Expansion On July 31, 2007, Governor Mike Easley signed into law NC Kids’ Care, legislation that created a new publicly subsidized insurance program for children in families earning 201 percent to 300 percent of the federal poverty level. While set for implementation on July 1, 2008, state officials are considering funding and program options in light of funding limitations and new federal restrictions. |
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Pennsylvania: Streamlined Enrollment & Renewal through Technology Pennsylvania has worked to implement enrollment and renewal practices that are easy to navigate for families and program staff. Among these innovations is its online application called COMPASS (Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services). Pennsylvania has coupled this work with eligibility expansions—in March 2007 it expanded its SCHIP program from 200 percent to 300 percent of the federal poverty level. |
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Washington State: Coverage to All Children In March 2007, Governor Chris Gregoire of Washington signed legislation to provide health coverage to all children, regardless of immigration status, with family incomes up to 300 percent of the federal poverty level. In addition, the legislation included initiatives to simplify and streamline the application and renewal processes and improve the quality and access. This new law is being phased-in over a five-year period (2007 to 2012). |