California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) on July 9 signed legislation (S.B. 104) to expand Medicaid to low-income residents ages 19 to 25, regardless of immigration status.
The state estimates the expansion, which takes effect Jan. 1, 2020, will extend Medicaid coverage to more than 100,000 undocumented young adults.
Since 2016, California has offered Medicaid for undocumented residents under age 19. California is the first state to provide health care coverage for undocumented adults.
The new law also established the Healthy California for All Commission, charged with exploring options to expand Medicaid coverage to individuals over age 64, regardless of immigration status, including potential funding sources. The commission will submit its findings in a report to the state’s legislature and governor by July 1, 2020.
Contact Senior Director of Policy Erin O’Malley at eomalley@essentialhospitals.org or 202.585.0127 with questions.
