CFE2BE1F6C9FC0C88725825200079579 Hearing Summary

The committee recessed.

Representatives Wist and Foote, prime sponsors, presented House Bill 18-1211, concerning controlling Medicaid fraud.  Representatives Wist and Foote explained the effect of the bill and discussed its need. Representative Foote responded to questions regarding the position of the district attorneys on the bill.  Representative Foote explained the effect of amendments L.001 (Attachment G), L.002 (Attachment H), L.003 (Attachment I), L.005 (Attachment J), L.006 (Attachment K), and L.007 (Attachment L). He responded to some questions about the amendments. Ms. Jennifer Anderson, representing the Department of Law, addressed questions regarding the functions of the district attorneys and the Attorney General under amendment L.006. Representative Foote provided input on the issue. Discussion ensued regarding the funding arrangement under amendment L.006.

Mr. Robert Booth, representing the Department of Law, testified in support of the bill. Mr. Booth discussed the role of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and provided input on the effect of HB 18-1211.

Ms. Anne Meier, State Long-term Care Ombudsman, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Meier discussed the function of her office, and reporting requirements in conjunction with the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.

Ms. Jeanette Hensley, representing the Colorado Senior Lobby, testified in support of the bill. Ms. Hensley discussed the importance of Medicaid to senior populations, and the prevalence of fraud in Medicaid. Ms. Christina Johnson, representing the Colorado Senior Lobby, testified in support of HB 18-1211. Ms. Johnson discussed a case of Medicaid fraud perpetrated by a health care provider she sought care from, and patterns in Medicaid fraud.

Mr. Fred Miles, representing the Colorado Health Care Association , testified in support of the bill, with amendments. Mr. Miles discussed some concerns his organization had with the bill, that are addressed by the amendments. He noted the deleterious effects of Medicaid fraud.

Representatives Wist and Foote provided closing remarks in support of HB 18-1211.