Washington State Allocates $20 Million for Immigrant Long-Term Care, Coverage Falls Short
Washington state lawmakers have approved a $20 million budget to help immigrants retain long-term care insurance coverage, which they are set to lose under federal law. Initially, the funding was expected to cover nearly 1,200 lawfully present noncitizens, but it will only suffice for 173 individuals. This shortfall is attributed to changing federal guidance and underestimated costs of medical services. The federal law cuts Medicaid coverage for most noncitizens, affecting around 14,000 individuals in Washington, including 1,500 receiving long-term care services. Notices of the change have been sent, with termination notices expected in late August. The state is prioritizing those in facilities to retain coverage, while most in home settings could lose Medicaid. 
