Some conservative states aren’t using Medicaid hardship exemption – for political reasons

States like Missouri and Iowa are choosing to not take up exemption designed to help low-income people keep coverage during hardship Some conservative states that have rejected hardship exemptions for the new Medicaid requirements may be choosing not to due to political reasons, experts say. New federal work requirements for Medicaid, slated to come into effect on 1 January, mean that adults enrolled through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Medicaid expansion will have to work, attend school, volunteer, or take part in another qualifying activity at least 80 hours a month to maintain their coverage. Continue reading...

Tobi Thomas Health and inequalities correspondent · Sun, Oct 18, 2026, 5:00 AM
US news | The Guardian

Some conservative states aren’t using Medicaid hardship exemption – for political reasons

States like Missouri and Iowa are choosing to not take up exemption designed to help low-income people keep coverage during hardship

Some conservative states that have rejected hardship exemptions for the new Medicaid requirements may be choosing not to due to political reasons, experts say.

New federal work requirements for Medicaid, slated to come into effect on 1 January, mean that adults enrolled through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Medicaid expansion will have to work, attend school, volunteer, or take part in another qualifying activity at least 80 hours a month to maintain their coverage.

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