Washington Allocates $20M for Immigrant Long-Term Care Coverage, Funding Covers Under 200 Enrollees
Washington state appropriated nearly $20 million in 2026 to maintain long-term care insurance coverage for immigrants losing eligibility under federal law changes. Lawmakers and advocates initially projected the funding would cover approximately 1,200 lawfully present noncitizens, but actual enrollment capacity will serve fewer than 200 individuals. The shortfall reflects higher-than-anticipated program costs per enrollee. The discrepancy between projected and actual coverage raises questions about state budget adequacy for immigrant populations affected by federal Medicaid eligibility restrictions.
The 83% reduction in covered lives versus projections signals acute cost estimation challenges for state-funded coverage extensions when federal eligibility changes, directly affecting Washington's long-term care budget planning and similar state policy responses nationwide.
LTSS · Long-Term Care
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