Utah proposes work requirements for 75000 Medicaid adult expansion members

The Health and Human Services Interim Committee of the Utah Legislature convened on May 21, 2025, to discuss significant proposals regarding community engagement and work requirements for Medicaid recipients. The meeting focused on a new proposal aimed at the adult expansion population, which currently includes approximately 75,000 members.

The primary agenda item was the introduction of community engagement requirements, which would mandate that adult expansion members participate in specific work-related activities to maintain their Medicaid enrollment. The proposal outlines that individuals who do not qualify for exemptions must create a job seeker account, complete online training modules, and apply for at least 48 jobs within a three-month period. If they fail to meet these requirements, their Medicaid eligibility will be suspended for an additional three months, after which it could be terminated if they do not fulfill the necessary criteria.

The committee discussed concerns raised by constituents regarding the administrative challenges of proving eligibility for exemptions, particularly for individuals with disabilities or those involved in the gig economy who may lack traditional employment documentation. The department acknowledged these concerns and emphasized the importance of accommodating various employment situations, including the possibility of self-attestation for income verification.

Additionally, the proposal includes a comprehensive list of exemptions aligned with existing SNAP requirements, such as individuals in active substance use treatment, caretakers of young children, and those with chronic health issues. It is estimated that about 10% of the adult expansion population would be subject to the new work requirements.

The meeting also touched on the need for coordination with the Department of Workforce Services to assist justice-involved individuals in finding employment, as well as clarifying that individuals over the age of 65 would not be subject to these work requirements.

The committee is currently in a public comment period, having already held two public meetings to gather feedback on the proposal. Further discussions are expected as the department seeks to refine the proposal based on community input. The meeting concluded with a commitment to address the administrative hurdles and ensure that the program does not inadvertently exclude eligible individuals from Medicaid coverage.