Subcommittee tables HB 136, a feasibility study for sickle cell medical homes, 7-0

The subcommittee heard a brief presentation on HB 136, a feasibility-study bill from Delegate Reid to assess creating medical health homes for Medicaid-eligible individuals with sickle cell disease. Staff explained the proposal would require a contractor and carry a fiscal impact; "there is a fiscal impact of $250,000 general funds and matching Medicaid dollars in fiscal year 2027," the presenter said.

Committee members asked clarifying questions about and acknowledged the importance of the issue. After discussion, a member moved and the subcommittee voted to "gently lay" HB 136 on the table; the chair recorded the vote as 7 to nothing. The chair said tabling allows staff and members to better evaluate resources and priorities before advancing the study.

Next steps: HB 136 remains tabled while staff continue budget analysis and resource planning.