Minnesota Medicaid Expansion Eligibility

 

The purpose of this bill is to expand access to affordable healthcare for Minnesotans by raising the income limit for

medical assistance eligibility

 

 

Many Minnesotans remain uninsured because they earn slightly more than the current income limit for Medical Assistance

but still cannot afford private health insurance. Expanding eligibility will allow more working families, young adults,

and low-wage workers to access essential medical care.

This expansion will reduce preventable illnesses, lower emergency room costs, and strengthen public health across the

state. Evidence from other states that expanded Medicaid shows improved health outcomes, decreased medical debt, and

stronger local economies. Ensuring broader access to health coverage promotes fairness, financial stability, and the

overall well-being of Minnesota residents.

 

Federal poverty level: the annual income thresholds issued by the United States Department of Health and Human Services

used to determine eligibility for certain federal and state programs.

Commissioner: the Commissioner of Human Services of the state of Minnesota.

Lawfully present immigrant: a noncitizen who is legally authorized to reside in the United States under federal

immigration law.

Household income: the combined gross income of all individuals living in the same household, as defined under federal

Medicaid eligibility standards.

Eligible individual: a Minnesota resident who meets the income, age, and residency requirements established in this Act

for participation in Medical Assistance.

 

The Minnesota Department of Human Services shall use all available federal Medicaid matching funds to pay for the costs

of the expanded Medical Assistance eligibility authorized by this Act. The department shall apply for any federal

approvals or waivers needed to receive these funds.

 

The Commissioner of Human Services shall ensure that all funds are used responsibly and efficiently. The commissioner

shall track expenditures and savings that result from the expansion, including changes in hospital uncompensated care

and emergency room use.

Any individual or organization that knowingly commits fraud, provides false information, or misuses funds under this Act

shall be subject to penalties and any other applicable federal law.

Penalties may include:

1. Repayment of all improperly obtained or misused funds;

2. Civil fines of up to $25,000 per violation;

3. Disqualification from participation in the Medical Assistance program for up to five years; and

4. Criminal prosecution, which may result in imprisonment for up to five years and additional fines as determined by the

court.

 

This Act shall take effect on January 1, 2028, allowing the Minnesota Department of Human Services sufficient time to

update systems, train staff, coordinate with healthcare providers, and conduct public outreach to ensure eligible

residents are fully informed and prepared to enroll, in accordance with state and federal law.