AUGUSTA - The Legislature's Health Coverage, Insurance and Financial Services Committee voted unanimously on Tuesday to advance a bill sponsored by Rep. Rebecca Millett, D-Cape Elizabeth, that would extend health insurance coverage to adults with disabilities.
LD 1798 would require state-regulated health insurance policies that provide coverage for a dependent child to extend coverage to adults with disabilities who are unable to support themselves through employment. The legislation would follow the lead of 20 other states that have enacted similar measures.
"Maine has a significant problem with waitlists and faces workforce shortages for home and community-based services for adults with intellectual disabilities, autism and acquired brain injuries," said Millett. "This legislation would provide Maine families with an important tool to help their children obtain critical supports. It would also be a great help to families who do not qualify for waiver programs but still have a critical need of treatment."
As currently permitted by the Affordable Care Act, children are allowed to remain on their parent's insurance until the age of 26. LD 1798 would allow a child with a physical, intellectual or developmental disability incapable of self-sustaining employment to remain on their parental insurance past the age of 26.
The bill faces further votes in the House and Senate.
Millett is serving her first term in the Maine House and represents District 30, part of Cape Elizabeth. She sits on the Education and Cultural Affairs Committee. Prior to representing House District 30, Millett served eight years in the State Senate, representing District 29, which includes South Portland, Cape Elizabeth and part of Scarborough.
Contact:
Jackie Merrill [Millett] c. 812-1111