| Via our partners at AAPD:
Dear Advocate,
Last year, Congress directed the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to issue regulations for new work requirements for Medicaid as part of the budget bill H.R. 1, also known as the reconciliation bill.
On June 3, CMS released an Interim Final Rule for states to begin designing and building out their processes and systems to implement the work requirements on January 1, 2027.
This means that beginning January 1, 2027, individuals who receive Medicaid in most states will need to engage in 80 hours per month of paid work, education (at least 6 credit hours per semester), workforce training, volunteering, or a combination of those activities to maintain their Medicaid coverage.
The rule provides exemptions to the work requirements for many individuals, including people with disabilities, caregivers to children or family members under the age of 13 or who have a disability, individuals with a Substance Use Disorder or who are enrolled in a substance abuse treatment program, certain former foster care youth, recently incarcerated individuals, and individuals with a serious or complex medical condition.
However, there is no guarantee that those who fall into an exemption category will receive an exemption, leaving many to navigate complex notices, paperwork, and documentation needed to prove their eligibility for an exemption from the work requirements.
Having to jump through hoops and hurdles to keep the healthcare that many people with disabilities depend on to survive will cause many to lose their Medicaid and could lead to unemployment, institutionalization, or worse.
AAPD has submitted comments opposing the CMS IFR on Medicaid work requirements, and strongly encourages you, your friends, and family members to do the same.
You can use the template provided to submit comments directly to CMS, and personalize your comment by adding relevant details unique to your situation in the areas highlighted in yellow. Submit your comment by clicking here.
Please note: Comments are posted publicly, and may be submitted anonymously if you choose. DO NOT include any personal identifying information in your comments, such as your physical address, email address, Social Security number, or other identifying information.
Your comment is essential in helping to protect the care our community relies on. Please forward this email and action alert widely!
In solidarity,
AAPD |
