Colorado lawmakers study Medicaid changes and report options for state action

A commission of ten Colorado lawmakers must study Medicaid and report its findings and any recommendations to the legislature and governor. The commission considers federal Medicaid changes affecting Coloradans in 2026, 2027, and 2028. The commission must use existing research to examine federal changes, Medicaid coverage and care, how agencies work together, and program funding. Its report must describe its work, who provided input, and any recommendations for short-term and long-term action. Meetings must begin as soon as practical after May 13, 2026. Six to twelve meetings must occur before December 11, 2026, and the report is due by that date. The commission's governing section expires June 30, 2027.

The commission must seek and consider public input and check how its recommendations would affect patients. Input must be sought from Medicaid patients, people with disabilities and their advocates, providers, and community groups. The review covers access to care, care quality, and fairness in health care. The commission must invite state health and human services agencies and the governor's office to participate. It may invite other Medicaid groups and experts. State agencies must provide requested data within their existing resources.

The law sets aside $500,000 from Colorado's general fund for the legislative department to carry out the commission's work. The funding covers the 2026–27 state budget year. The money includes $28,314 for the legislature and $471,686 for the legislative council, based on an additional half-time staff position. The commission must hire a qualified health-policy advisor with no conflicts of interest to help with its work and recommendations. Legislative council staff must also assist. Daily allowances and travel expenses for lawmakers attending meetings during the 2026 legislative break apply only if House Bill 26-1331 becomes law, starting when both laws are effective. The department may spend the money through December 31, 2026. Unspent and uncommitted money returns to the general fund January 1, 2027. The law otherwise takes effect upon passage.