Survey shows majority of Washington's Medicaid recipients are unaware of changes coming
KOMO News
Last updated: June 15, 2026
The Big Beautiful Bill, signed into law in July 2025 by President Donald Trump, is projected to reduce federal Medicaid spending by $1 trillion over ten years. This legislation significantly impacts Washington state's Medicaid program, which relies heavily on federal funding.
- The bill is expected to cause Washington state to lose billions in federal Medicaid funds. While the state budget allocates $165 million to offset these costs, substantial changes to the program are imminent.
- Key changes include new work requirements for Medicaid eligibility, effective December 31st. Individuals aged 19-64 must work, attend school, or volunteer at least 80 hours monthly to retain coverage.
- A survey indicates a low awareness among Medicaid enrollees regarding these impending work requirements; 55% are completely unaware, and 27% have partial knowledge.
- Eligibility verification will also shift to a semiannual process, a detail unknown to 85% of enrollees.
- Washington's Medicaid enrollees show slightly higher awareness of work requirements compared to the national average, with 51% unaware versus 55% nationally.
- Prior to the work requirements, an estimated 30,000 refugees and asylees in Washington will lose coverage in October.
