Blue states sue Trump administration over Medicaid work requirements
Democrat administrations in 25 states and the District of Columbia on Monday filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration over its recent guidance on new Medicaid work requirements, arguing that strict eligibility requirements will prevent eligible Americans from accessing care.
TL;DR
- 25 states and the District of Columbia have sued the Trump administration over new Medicaid work requirements.
- Plaintiffs argue that strict eligibility requirements will prevent eligible Americans from accessing care.
- The lawsuit challenges the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' (CMS) guidance, specifically its narrower definition of 'medically frail'.
- The guidance requires able-bodied Medicaid enrollees (ages 19-64) to work, study, or volunteer at least 80 hours per month starting Jan. 1, 2027, with exceptions for addiction treatment or being 'medically frail'.
- Attorneys general and governors claim the 'added administrative burdens will cause individuals who are eligible for Medicaid to lose or be denied coverage.'
- Polls show about 6 in 10 adults support Medicaid work requirements, but nearly two-thirds of Medicaid adults are already employed or unable to work due to caregiving, illness/disability, or school.