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caretaker target population for this waiver. State Response: This demonstration waiver seeks to implement a new program specifically designed to provide a new coverage pathway for low-income working families whose income is currently too high to qualify for Medicaid, but too low to qualify for federal subsidies in the federal marketplace. The program is designed to be a targeted benefit to support working families. Interested in Coverage Comment Summary: Sixteen commentors expressed an interest in gaining coverage under the waiver program and asked various questions about how to apply and when coverage would begin. State Response: SCDHHS is pleased with the interest individuals have shown in the program and the number of individuals who are interested in coverage. The state will provide the public with information about the start date and how to apply for coverage following waiver approval. After CMS approval, SCDHHS will develop a communications and implementation plan that clearly lays out timing, content, and the methodology by which participants will be notified of program changes. Limited Waiver Population Comment Summary: Eighty-six commentors noted that the target population for the waiver was very limited as it targets only parents with income between 67%-100% of the federal poverty level. Of the 86 comments, 72 used identical language. One commentor indicated that it was unfair to only allow parents to gain coverage. State Response: SCDHHS designed this program to specifically target individuals currently enrolled in the PCR Medicaid coverage group who could otherwise lose their Medicaid coverage if their income increases due to employment. Oppose Community Engagement Requirements Comment Summary: Eighty-eight commentors noted their opposition to community engagement requirements being tied to Medicaid eligibility. They noted that many individuals in this population do work but that some individuals are unable to work for various reasons including medical issues, transportation issues, or being a full-time caregiver. Of these 88 comments, 72 used identical language. State Response: As stated above, the Palmetto Pathways to Independence program is intended to remove financial disincentives for employment that exist within the current Medicaid program. By maintaining a community engagement requirement for participation, the program aims to reinforce the proven link between improved economic self-sufficiency and improved health by leveraging the Medicaid program’s financing mechanisms to remove health- related barriers to employment by eliminating the disincentives to employment created by 19