New Bill Would Remove Medicaid Recipients Who Don’t Meet Work Requirements

Under new legislation from Sen. Don Gaetz and Rep. John Snyder, Medicaid recipients ages 18-64 could lose coverage if they fail to meet work requirements, including working, pursuing education, or receiving training for at least 80 hours a month.

“Common sense work requirements for able-bodied adults emphasize personal responsibility. If you are asking your friends and neighbors to pay for your health care, you have a responsibility to do your best to find work,” said Snyder, a Palm City Republican.

Snyder’s HB 1453 outlines several exemptions. People with disabilities, caregivers, inmates, those in rehab, former foster youth under 23, and postpartum mothers would not face the stricter work standards or risk losing coverage.

“With strong exceptions for caregivers of young children and former foster youth, among others, we are making it clear that able-bodied adults who do not have the responsibility of a young child at home are expected to work to help pay for their own health care,” said Gaetz, a Crestview Republican.

HB 1453, filed Friday, establishes work requirements with a 30-day grace period to meet them. Those removed from Medicaid could request a hearing to appeal the decision or reapply for coverage.

“Medicaid is designed as a safety net for children, pregnant women, the elderly, and the disabled. As costs rise each year, we have an obligation to ensure we provide robust services to those truly in need, while establishing basic standards that keep able-bodied adults on Medicaid on the path to self-sufficiency,” Gaetz said.

The proposed legislation also includes creating a new waiver program for community-based behavioral health services and tools to ensure Medicaid obtains the lowest prices for drugs and devices, according to a press release.

The bill comes as a Medicaid expansion ballot initiative seeks to qualify for the 2028 ballot. Proponents say 1.4 million low-income Floridians do not qualify for Medicaid and cannot afford private insurance.

“Florida Decides Healthcare is spearheading a ballot initiative to expand Medicaid, ensuring that every Floridian has access to quality health care,” the political committee said.

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