Bill shields military families from losing Medicaid when they relocate

What does this do?

Senate Bill 1855 would require every state to automatically count relocated military families as residents for Medicaid purposes, so coverage continues without interruption when a service member is transferred. The bill also preserves a family member's place on waiting lists for home and community-based services, such as in-home nursing care or disability support, when the family moves under military orders. Families may opt out of the automatic residency determination if they choose.

Who does it affect?

The bill covers active-duty service members, those who left active duty within the past 12 months, and their dependents who move with them. It particularly affects families with members who have disabilities or ongoing medical needs and rely on Medicaid.

Why does it matter?

Without this protection, military families transferred to a new state can lose Medicaid coverage or lose their place on waiting lists that can stretch for years. State Medicaid programs would need to update their rules to comply with the new federal requirements by January 1, 2028.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• $1 million per year, federal
• Covers years 2026 through 2030
• For state Medicaid program updates