CMS Guidance Addresses Medicaid Immigrant Eligibility Restrictions Effective October 1, 2026

The 2025 reconciliation law imposed new Medicaid and CHIP eligibility restrictions for many lawfully present immigrants, with an effective date of October 1, 2026. CMS has issued implementation guidance addressing how states should apply these restrictions. The brief examines operational issues states will face in implementing the new eligibility rules and the impact on affected immigrant populations. The changes directly affect state eligibility systems, enrollment processes, and coverage for lawfully present immigrants who previously qualified for Medicaid and CHIP.

CHIP