Medicaid

New York has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration challenging its new public charge rule, which makes it easier to deny green cards or visas to immigrants who use public benefits such as Medicaid or food assistance. Critics argue the rule discourages immigrant families from seeking essential services, while supporters say it ensures newcomers are self-sufficient. The case adds to a series of legal battles between Democratic-led states and the federal government over immigration policy.

Colorado officials are considering reducing funding for addiction recovery coaches as state Medicaid spending on these services has jumped 286%. The peer coaches, who help people stay engaged in substance-use treatment, have grown into a significant Medicaid cost line, prompting state budget writers to look for savings. Advocates warn that scaling back the program could disrupt care for people in recovery, while state leaders argue costs have grown faster than expected and need tighter oversight. No final decision has been made on the size of any cuts.

A new rule in Missouri puts roughly 140,000 Medicaid enrollees at risk of losing their health coverage, and one beneficiary has filed a lawsuit challenging the change. The suit is drawing attention to how the state is administering eligibility requirements and the potential scale of coverage losses for low-income residents.