Wisconsin prepares for new Medicaid work requirements

Wisconsin is preparing to implement new federal Medicaid work requirements starting January 1, 2027, as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. State officials estimate that approximately 63,000 people are at risk of losing coverage. The requirements specifically target childless adults aged 19 to 64 enrolled in the BadgerCare Plus program, a group comprising roughly 200,000 individuals.

Exemptions apply to several groups, including parents of dependent children, pregnant or postpartum individuals, caregivers, veterans with total disabilities, and participants in addiction or rehabilitation programs. Additionally, federal rules have narrowed the definition of medical frailty, requiring individuals to prove their condition prevents them from working.

Other states, such as Nebraska and Montana, have already implemented similar rules. In Nebraska, officials reported confusion regarding eligibility and procedural errors leading to wrongful denials. Montana leaders emphasized the necessity of clear communication, particularly with Native American tribes who are exempt from these requirements. The federal initiative aims to reduce spending by $326 billion over 10 years by addressing what the Trump administration describes as “waste, fraud and abuse” within the program.