Florida State Government Contests New Law Regarding Children’s Health Insurance Programs

Florida is taking legal action against the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) regarding a new policy governing the removal of children from public health insurance programs. The lawsuit contests a law mandating that states maintain children’s eligibility for Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for 12 consecutive months, regardless of changes in circumstances. Since April, Florida has eliminated approximately 420,000 children from these programs, as eligibility reviews resumed post-pandemic. Florida, which requires CHIP enrollees to pay monthly premiums, seeks permission to terminate coverage for families failing to pay. However, the law only offers limited exceptions, excluding nonpayment of premiums. Florida’s legislators assert that CMS’ interpretation threatens CHIP’s financial stability. Conversely, child health advocates argue that the lawsuit’s success would exacerbate insurance instability, potentially harming children’s health and education. Click here to read more.