S.447 - Jobs and Opportunities for Medicaid Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.447, the "Jobs and Opportunities for Medicaid Act," proposes to amend Title XIX of the Social Security Act, introducing a minimum work requirement for able-bodied adults enrolled in State Medicaid programs. Beginning January 1, 2026, states would be required to ensure that able-bodied adults work at least 20 hours per week or volunteer for 20 hours per week to maintain Medicaid eligibility. The bill defines 'able-bodied adult' with specific exemptions, including those under 18 or over 65, medically unfit individuals, pregnant women, primary caretakers of young children or those with disabilities, those receiving unemployment compensation, and those in drug or alcohol treatment programs.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of this bill would be to restrict Medicaid access for some adults. States would need to implement systems to verify work or volunteer hours. Some individuals may lose Medicaid coverage if they cannot meet the work requirements or do not qualify for an exemption.
Potential Benefits
- Potential for Increased Employment: Could incentivize some Medicaid recipients to seek employment or volunteer opportunities.
- Reduced Dependence on Public Assistance: Aims to decrease reliance on government programs by promoting self-sufficiency.
- Fiscal Savings for States: States could potentially save money due to decreased Medicaid enrollment.
- Community Engagement: Encourages volunteering, which can benefit local communities.
- Promotes Personal Responsibility: Encourages individuals to take responsibility for their healthcare.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Loss of Healthcare Coverage: Some individuals may lose access to necessary medical care if they cannot meet the work requirements.
- Administrative Burden: States will face increased administrative costs to track and verify work hours and exemptions.
- Disproportionate Impact on Vulnerable Populations: Individuals with limited skills, transportation issues, or other barriers to employment may be negatively affected.
- Increased Poverty: Loss of Medicaid could exacerbate poverty for some individuals and families.
- Potential for Increased Emergency Room Use: Lack of preventative care could lead to increased emergency room visits, which are more costly.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the Constitution is debatable. Congress has the power to tax and spend for the general welfare (Article I, Section 8), which includes establishing and regulating programs like Medicaid. However, some may argue that restricting access to healthcare based on work requirements could potentially infringe upon the equal protection principles implied in the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments, particularly if the requirements disproportionately affect certain groups. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific enumerated rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).