Medicaid Policy Changes for Legal Immigrants Take Effect October 1

Why it matters locally: These federal Medicaid policy changes will directly affect legal immigrants residing in South Dakota, potentially altering their access to healthcare services provided through the state's Medicaid program.

Starting October 1, some immigrants residing legally in the United States will experience a change in their Medicaid coverage. This adjustment originates from a Republican budget bill which lawmakers passed last year. The policy specifically affects individuals who hold legal immigration status. Federal guidelines for Medicaid eligibility will shift for this group on the effective date.