Summary
Children in the United States are being removed from Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) following changes in federal policies after the COVID-19 pandemic. Over 6 million children lost their coverage between March 2023 and June 2025 as states rolled back expanded coverage policies. While some states maintained or increased enrollment, most saw significant reductions.
Key Facts
- Over 6 million children have been removed from Medicaid/CHIP from March 2023 to June 2025.
- During the pandemic, states expanded Medicaid coverage under emergency rules, leading to higher enrollment.
- As of March 2023, states started reducing enrollment once pandemic-related rules relaxed.
- Maine and North Carolina saw a 2% increase in child enrollment, unlike other states.
- States like Montana, Utah, Texas, and Alaska experienced reductions exceeding 25% in child enrollment.
- The difference in state enrollment rates is partly due to varying paperwork and renewal requirements.
- Medicaid and CHIP offer critical health benefits, contributing to improved child health outcomes.
- About 42 million children were enrolled in Medicaid/CHIP at the peak in April 2023, declining by around 4 million by April 2024.
