Bill that requires Iowans on Medicaid to work at least 80 hours per month working its way through the Statehouse
Republicans in the Iowa Senate have passed a bill that would require Iowans to work at least 80 hours a month to qualify for Medicaid and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.
The legislation includes exemptions for specific groups, such as caregivers to children under 6 years old, disabled individuals, those who are medically frail or medically exempt, high-risk pregnant women, anyone under 19 or over 65, those receiving unemployment benefits, and participants in substance abuse treatment programs.
Sen. Mike Klimesh, a Republican from Spillville and the bill's floor manager, emphasized the intent behind the legislation, arguing during a debate, "By requiring work, we are providing an important stepping stone to help Iowans develop the life skills, build responsibility and regain a sense of purpose."
An analysis by the nonpartisan Legislative Services Agency estimates that approximately 32,000 Iowans could lose coverage starting in 2026 if the bill becomes law.
"Usually, it is a multifaceted issue. It's never one thing that is keeping them from being able to obtain employment," Nolan Vitzthum, a licensed independent social worker in Humboldt County, explained.
Vitzthum works with many clients who rely on Medicaid. She highlighted the importance of access to health insurance, stating, "In order to remain healthy and able to work, Iowans need access to health insurance."
The bill directs the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services to seek a federal waiver to implement the work requirements. If the federal government denies the waiver, the state would be required to replace the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan with an alternative, which would also need federal approval.
The bill now faces an amendment in the House, which is scheduled to be debated Wednesday. If the amendment passes, the legislation will return to the Senate for approval before heading to the governor's desk.
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