INDIANAPOLIS — The Senate Appropriations Committee convened today to discuss five bills, including Medicaid reimbursement for children’s hospitals and juvenile law. State Sen. David Niezgodski (D-South Bend) issued the following statement in support of the measures: 

“I am extremely supportive of these bills that focus on supporting Hoosier families,” Niezgodski said. “Hoosier families should be in the driver’s seat when it comes to making decisions that are best for their children’s health and well-being.” 

House Bill (HB) 1024 would continue Medicaid reimbursement for out-of-state children’s hospitals that serve Indiana patients. 

“When Hoosier parents face complex medical conditions for their children, they need the ability to make the best decisions for their families,” Niezgodski said. “Sometimes that means seeking care at an out-of-state children’s hospital. This bill would aid these families by continuing to allow Medicaid reimbursement in such cases.” 

HB 1605 seeks to improve the foster care system by prioritizing sibling placement and family reunification services. 

“When it comes to appropriating state dollars, we need to be keenly focused on the next generation of Hoosiers: our children,” Niezgodski said. “While this bill has a fiscal impact due to the increased use of family reunification services, it underscores our commitment to placing children in loving homes. This is what it means to prioritize the budget in a way that reflects our values.” 

Niezgodski emphasized that these two bills have a minimal fiscal impact but would make a significant difference in the lives of Hoosier families. 

“I look forward to supporting these important measures that put Hoosier families first,” he said.