Mississippi Medicaid Expansion with Work Requirement Faces Federal Approval Hurdle Amid Inflation and Healthcare Cost Crunch

Fox News’ Alicia Acuna discusses the impact of inflation on healthcare in her report as Americans struggling with affordability find solace in programs like Medicare and Medicaid. In Mississippi, lawmakers are expected to vote this week on a proposal that would expand Medicaid coverage for tens of thousands more people but includes a work requirement which might not win federal approval due to its similarity to Georgia’s rejected plan by the Biden administration last year. Advocates argue covering these individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma and diabetes could help them manage their illnesses better, especially in one of America’s poorest states that have hesitated since President Barack Obama’s Health Reform signed almost 10 years ago. Republican Governor Tate Reeves has been against putting more Mississippi residents on government programs for years, but dynamics shifted after a new House Speaker Jason White voiced support this year in light of struggling hospitals’ financial situation. The proposal requires the newly eligible to work at least 100 hours per month or fit into other categories such as being full-time students or parents with children under six years old. If federal approval is denied, Mississippi will continue seeking authorization annually, recognizing that future administrations might render a different decision due to their differing views on the matter. Georgia’s work requirement was approved by former President Donald Trump’s administration but revoked last year by Biden’s team, leading to legal action from state officials in response.