Proponents say the rule change is about fairness.
The deduction would not apply to unearned income like social security or child support. While it is true that more children will become eligible for HAWK-I insurance as a result of this proposed rule change, it also encourages people to continue working rather than falling into the ranks of the unemployed who rely on even more government assistance. And, proponents point out, the state has a strong interest in seeing every child with health care coverage. Finally, it should be noted that the HAWK-I Board of Directors has endorsed this change. There is sure to be a healthy discussion regarding this issue at the September 15 th Administrative Rules Review Committee meeting.