Bobby Jindal

Free LaCHIP health insurance program expanding availability

Free LaCHIP health insurance program expanding availability
The News Star, By Greg Hilburn
June 6, 2008

Children whose families earn too much to qualify for free health insurance but whose family income doesn't exceed 250 percent of the federal poverty level can now qualify for coverage at a reduced price.

For a family of four, the annual income limit to qualify for the new government-subsidized LaCHIP Affordable Plan is $53,000. Children must be 18 or younger and not covered by other insurance to qualify. Premiums are $50 per month.

Families whose incomes don't exceed 200 percent of the poverty level will continue to qualify for regular LaCHIP, which is provided at no cost.

Jindal went to Washington in January to ask for a waiver that would allow the state to install the new program. LaCHIP is federally funded, but administered by the state.

Read the complete article