WASHINGTON D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced his support for the Advancing Care for Exceptional Kids (ACE Kids) Act. This bipartisan legislation, which was introduced by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), aims to improve health outcomes and care coordination for children with complex medical conditions in Medicaid. 

“Families caring for a sick child have enough to worry about without the federal government adding more obstacles,” said Senator King. “Working together, this bipartisan bill offers solutions to help families and kids on what really matters: their health.” 

Specifically, the ACE Kids Act would make it possible for health care providers to coordinate care, lower costs, and improve quality outcomes for children with complex medical conditions on Medicaid who require specialized care. About two-thirds of the three million children with complex medical conditions are covered by Medicaid, representing nearly 40 percent of Medicaid costs for children. These children have illnesses and conditions including cancer, congenital heart disease, cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, and chronic health challenges from premature birth, which often require them to travel to another state to find treatment. 

This bill, which is also supported by Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), would help hospitals coordinate and standardize care across state lines, ensuring our nation’s most vulnerable children receive seamless treatment. It would also ease the burden of government bureaucracy on families, establishing case managers to help them navigate the complicated, and often expensive, health care system.