New policy as of Jan. 1 supports a healthier, more equitable start for the youngest residents



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NEWS RELEASE



*Dec. 30, 2024*




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Scott Peterson
651-392-7223
[email protected]

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Minnesota stabilizes Medicaid for children up to age 6

Eligible Minnesota children will soon have steady access to Medicaid health insurance until they turn 6.

The new policy as of Jan. 1 will support a healthier, more equitable start for the youngest state residents. All children under age 6 who qualify for Medical Assistance will have up to 72 months of uninterrupted coverage. Medical Assistance is Minnesota’s Medicaid program.

Signed into law by Governor Tim Walz in 2023, continuous eligibility for kids prevents gaps in necessary care and promotes health equity.

“We know that consistent access to health care and regular check-ups improve children’s health outcomes, support school readiness and advance health equity,” said Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead. “This new policy takes a big step toward those goals.”

Another change gives qualifying 19- and 20-year-olds ongoing Medical Assistance eligibility for 12 months at a time.

Minnesota has significant racial health disparities, with Black and Hispanic children more likely to experience gaps in health care coverage. Data shows that these groups are at greater risk of losing their health insurance because of paperwork and administrative barriers. The new law makes it easier for kids to stay covered.

For children under 6 who qualify for Medical Assistance, the new law extends their eligibility until the last day of the month of their 6th birthday.

The law’s initial phase took effect in January 2024. It allows children ages 6 to 19 who qualify for Medical Assistance to remain eligible for 12 months at a time.

People who have Medical Assistance have to renew their insurance each year. To keep their health insurance, enrollees are urged to update their contact information and watch their mail for important renewal paperwork. For more information about Medical Assistance renewals, visit mn.gov/dhs/renewmycoverage [ [link removed] ].

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