North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper (D) on March 27 signed into law a bipartisan bill to expand Medicaid eligibility to individuals who make up to 138 percent of the federal poverty level. Implementation of the expansion is contingent upon the passage of the state’s 2023–2024 budget, as well as approval by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.
“This a historic moment that will transform the health and well-being of North Carolina,” said North Carolina’s Secretary of Health & Human Services Kody Kinsley. “Medicaid expansion is foundational in improving access to health care in rural areas, for better mental health and for veterans, working adults, and their families. For 600,000 people, Medicaid expansion is life changing.”
With North Carolina’s expansion, just 10 states have yet to expand Medicaid. Of these, only Florida and Wyoming permit program expansion through ballot initiatives. For the remaining states, the state legislative process could offer a potential path toward Medicaid expansion. Notably, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly (D) in February proposed legislation to expand Medicaid.
Contact Senior Director of Policy Erin O’Malley at eomalley@essentialhospitals.org or 202.585.0127 with questions.
