Medicaid would cover eligible former foster youth until age 26

Medicaid would cover former foster youth under 26 who meet the listed requirements. Covered histories include state foster care at 18 or a higher age chosen by the state, leaving care for a kinship caregiver to become their legal guardian, and legal emancipation before 18. They must either fall outside the other listed Medicaid categories and not be enrolled through them, or have income above the limit for a category they otherwise fit. Kinship guardianship payments would not affect eligibility. The coverage provision would take effect January 1, 2026, and apply to people turning 18 on or after that date.

States would establish programs to help eligible former foster youth enroll in Medicaid. The programs would serve former foster youth eligible under the Medicaid coverage category described in this bill. States would coordinate with their foster-care agency and other appropriate or interested agencies. Programs would follow best practices established by the federal Secretary. States would have to establish these programs no later than January 1, 2026.