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Medicaid Disenrollment Rates Surge in Three States, Affecting Millions

3/31/2026

Center

Medicaid Disenrollment Surge

West Virginia, Oregon, and New Mexico will face the highest Medicaid disenrollment rates under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, exceeding 20%.
The act mandates biannual eligibility checks and a community-engagement requirement.
The act could affect up to 5.2 million Americans by 2034.
In Nevada, Medicaid applications surged 62% this year due to processing delays.
Urban Institute warns millions could lose coverage if states fail to implement the requirements.

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Sherrill's Medicaid Reforms

New Jersey will require 550,000 low-income adults to document Medicaid eligibility more frequently, potentially affecting up to 350,000 residents.
Governor Mikie Sherrill's budget proposal includes over $10 million to enhance the enrollment system before the January deadline.
Human Services Commissioner Stephen Cha emphasized community collaboration to minimize coverage losses.
The state will improve technology and outreach through health hubs to help eligible members navigate the requirements.

History

Historical Context

The Affordable Care Act of 2010 expanded Medicaid, adding 12 million newly eligible Americans to the program. As states like West Virginia and New Jersey tighten eligibility checks, over 5.2 million could lose coverage by 2034. This trend mirrors the 1996 welfare reforms aimed at reducing dependency, raising concerns about increased healthcare disparities for low-income families navigating complex systems.

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Medicaid Disenrollment Surge

West Virginia, Oregon, and New Mexico will face the highest Medicaid disenrollment rates under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, exceeding 20%.
The act mandates biannual eligibility checks and a community-engagement requirement.
The act could affect up to 5.2 million Americans by 2034.
In Nevada, Medicaid applications surged 62% this year due to processing delays.
Urban Institute warns millions could lose coverage if states fail to implement the requirements.

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