Summary
The Missouri House approved an amendment that requires many Medicaid recipients to engage in work, volunteer, or educational activities to keep their coverage. This amendment now heads to the Missouri Senate and may appear as a ballot measure in November. The proposal aims to incorporate these work requirements into the Missouri Constitution, which would affect many Medicaid expansion recipients.
Key Facts
- The Missouri House passed the amendment with a 99-48 vote.
- The amendment requires adults aged 19-64 in the Medicaid expansion group to work, study, volunteer, or undergo job training for 80 hours each month to keep their benefits.
- Exemptions from the requirement apply to children, pregnant women, and people with disabilities.
- The proposal is similar to a federal rule that begins in 2027 under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.
- The measure would remove a constitutional provision that restricts additional burdens on Medicaid eligibility or funding.
- Supporters believe it encourages work and conserves resources, while opponents worry it could reduce coverage for some recipients.
- If the Senate approves, the amendment will appear on the November ballot for Missouri voters to decide.
