A new lawsuit takes aim at the federal rules governing who can be excused from Medicaid work requirements. The case, filed on behalf of five enrollees and a coalition of provider groups, argues that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services has improperly narrowed the definition of medical frailty, leaving seriously ill people vulnerable to losing coverage.
The plaintiffs contend that the exemptions are so restrictive that they exclude many beneficiaries who are genuinely unable to work due to health conditions. Under the challenged rules, those who do not meet the narrow frailty criteria could be forced to comply with work mandates or face losing their Medicaid benefits.
The lawsuit asks the court to block the rules, saying they go beyond what the law allows. If successful, the case could reshape how states implement work requirements and determine who qualifies for protection based on medical need.