The program allowing eligible workers with disabilities to continue receiving Medicaid benefits created last year by Governor Ted Strickland the Ohio General Assembly has received the required federal approval today according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Effective April 1, workers with disabilities earning up to 250 percent ($26,000 in 2008) of the Federal Poverty Level may pay a monthly premium to continue Medicaid coverage.

"We are pleased that our federal counterparts recognized the fact that providing continued access to health care also removes what otherwise could serve a barrier to work for many individuals who have the ability and desire to take part in the working community," ODJFS Helen Jones-Kelley said.

State legislators also expressed satisfaction that the collaborative efforts of state government and local advocates are coming to fruition.

"Through this change, we are empowering thousands of Ohioans with disabilities to be able to work while maintaining their health benefits," said State Senator Steve Stivers (R-Columbus), sponsor of the bill authorizing the program. "I view this as a win-win for the state, because not only are we incentivizing people to work, which is good for the economy, but we are providing access to health care in a fiscally responsible way."

"We in the Senate Democratic Caucus applaud the Governor for giving those with disabilities the opportunity to work without risking the loss of Medicaid coverage," Senate Democratic Leader Miller said. "People should not have to choose between earning and living and having access to quality, affordable health care coverage. This move ensures coverage for those who need it the most while empowering them to support themselves and more fully live the American dream."

State Representative Jon Peterson, sponsor of Medicaid Buy-In legislation in the House, noted "this program will change lives. Participants in the program will be able to live their dreams of becoming fully integrated into the workforce. This program adds a significant number of highly skilled employees to Ohio's working population."

"The leadership of the Governor and the success of the budget have created this important program, which invests in the economy by strengthening families, communities and the state’s economy," State Senator Shirley Smith (D-Cleveland). This is a great day for workers with disabilities – the buy-in will enable them to live healthy and contribute to the vitality of Ohio's workforce. Healthy workers create a healthy economy that in turn makes the future of our state more hopeful and prosperous for all Ohioans."

Under the program, Ohioans between the ages of 16 and 64 with a disability defined by the Social Security Administration can pay an income-based premium for Medicaid coverage. Additional information on the program is available by calling the Ohio Medicaid Consumer hotline at 1-800-324-8680.

More than 2 million Ohioans receive health coverage through the state's Medicaid program, administered by the ODJFS Office of Ohio Health Plans.