HARRISBURG – The state Senate unanimously approved two measures this week to boost the availability of health care services and coverage throughout Pennsylvania, according to state Sen. Gene Yaw (R-23), who supported the bills.
Senate Bill 890 would ensure employees with disabilities can continue to work without the risk of losing access to health care benefits. The bill would create a new category of Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD) specifically for workers who are succeeding in the workplace and at risk of losing medical benefits.
Under the bill, employees who fall into this category based on their success on the job could continue to purchase Medical Assistance benefits based on a percentage of their monthly income. Should the employee lose eligibility in the job success category, their assets developed during that time will not be counted in their determination for the MAWD program.
Senate Bill 1268 would open new opportunities for Pennsylvanians to continue a career in the medical field by allowing temporary nurse aides hired during the COVID-19 emergency declaration to receive certification to continue working. Without this legislation, nurse aides hired on a temporary basis will no longer be able to work as nurse aides when the pandemic emergency provisions expire.
Both bills were sent to the House of Representatives for consideration.
For more state-related news and information, visit Senator Yaw’s website at www.SenatorGeneYaw.com or on Facebook and Twitter @SenatorGeneYaw.
CONTACT: Rita Zielonis, Chief of Staff
(717) 787-3280