Governor Hochul Expands Health Care Coverage for 800,000 Kids in New York

Waiver Amendment Ensures Children Under Six Have Uninterrupted Coverage in Child Health Plus and Medicaid

Continuous Eligibility Waiver Will Promote Health Equity Throughout the State

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the state is now able to offer children under the age of six continuous eligibility in Child Health Plus and Medicaid. This change simplifies enrollment in these programs by reducing administrative burdens and ensures the youngest New Yorkers have consistent access to coverage through the age of six. Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, the New York State Department of Health submitted a 1115 Medicaid Redesign Team waiver amendment that has been approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. This approval follows through on the Governor’s commitment to enhance New York’s health care system, advance health equity and expand health care coverage.

“By expanding health coverage for 800,000 children across our state, we’re ensuring they have the uninterrupted coverage they need to lead full and healthy lives,” Governor Hochul said. “This waiver allows us to give families options when it comes to their children’s health care, and we will always go the extra mile to create a healthy future for our youngest New Yorkers.”

Governor Hochul’s dedication to ensuring quality health care across the state solidifies New York’s position in the growing list of states that provide continuous health insurance eligibility for children under six years old.

There are more than 800,000 children under the age of six enrolled in Medicaid and Child Health Plus who could benefit from this change.

As of September 2024, more than 2.5 million children under 18 years of age have been enrolled in Medicaid and Child Health Plus, making New York's one of the most expansive public health insurance programs in the country. Medicaid and Child Health Plus are available for enrollment throughout the year and provide comprehensive health benefits for the most vulnerable New Yorkers, including low-income families with children, seniors, children in foster care, pregnant women and people with disabilities.

The waiver amendment revises the state’s current MRT 1115 waiver by modifying existing eligibility criteria for children in Medicaid and Child Health Plus, to allow them continuous enrollment even if the child’s family circumstances change. Gaps in coverage for young children can be detrimental to their long-term health and well-being. These experiences can have negative long-term implications for children's mental and physical health, educational attainment, and financial security.

In receiving this approval, Governor Hochul has secured uninterrupted access to health insurance that will ensure children are connected to coverage and essential health care during their formative years, including important preventive and primary care services. This furthers the Governor’s strong commitment to putting New York at the forefront of progressive, compassionate health care.

More information about the MRT 1115 Continuous Eligibility waiver amendment can be found here.

More information and public comments for the MRT 1115 Continuous Eligibility waiver amendment can be found here.