April 28, 2026

Nebraska implements first Medicaid work requirement in the U.S.

Nebraska is the first state to enforce work, volunteer, or education requirements for Medicaid applicants, launching the policy eight months ahead of federal mandates.
Governor Jim Pillen aims to engage able-bodied residents, but health advocates fear many eligible individuals could lose coverage due to rapid implementation and administrative burdens.
The new mandate requires participants aged 19 to 64 to demonstrate 80 hours of work or community service monthly, with eligibility reviews every six months, raising concerns about increased disenrollment.