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Model Application Template for the State Children’s Health Insurance Program

ARKANSAS Effective Date: July 1, 2003

Approval Date: 37 ARKids B children through Title XXI. The separate state child health insurance program to cover unborn children is supported by the Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, the Arkansas Department of Health and the Arkansas Center for Health Improvement.

Changes in Medicaid expansion and the separate state child health insurance program will be promulgated as required by the State’s Administrative Procedures Act (APA). The APA requires that the agency publish a notice, regarding proposed rules, in a newspaper with statewide circulation. As a part of the APA process, DMS also notifies “interested persons” and appropriate Medicaid providers of proposed rules to solicit comments and input. The APA process requires the review of new and revised rules by the Administrative Rules and Regulations Subcommittee of the Arkansas Legislative Council.

9.9.1 Describe the process used by the state to ensure interaction with Indian Tribes and organizations in the state on the development and implementation of the procedures required in 42 CFR 457.125. (Section 2107(c)) (42CFR 457.120(c))

There is no American Indian Nation, Tribe or reservation in Arkansas. However, we were able to locate a private-not-for-profit organization in Little Rock called the American Indian Center of Arkansas. They have agreed to cooperate with us in providing information to targeted low- income children who are Indians. We will provide them with ARKids First applications and pamphlets.

9.9.2 For an amendment relating to eligibility or benefits (including cost sharing and enrollment procedures), please describe how and when prior public notice was provided as required in §457.65(b) through (d).

Amendments relating to eligibility or benefits, including cost sharing and enrollment procedures will be promulgated according to the State’s Administrative Procedures Act. The Act requires a public notice in a statewide newspaper with a 30-day comment period.