Webinar: H.R. 1 Exemptions from Work Requirements
Under new federal requirements, certain adults enrolled in Medicaid may eventually need to report work, education, or training activities to maintain coverage. While many individuals are expected to qualify for exemptions, ensuring patients receive clear, timely information will be essential to helping eligible individuals avoid unnecessary coverage disruptions.
To support stakeholder education and planning efforts, the Illinois Dept. of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) continues to host a webinar series focused on the anticipated Medicaid changes under H.R. 1. The next webinar, “Exemptions from Work Requirements,” will take place Wednesday, July 22 from 1:30-2:30 p.m. CT. Additional webinars are also planned in the coming months. To register for this webinar, and view other upcoming webinars, click here.
HFS has also developed a communication toolkit to help providers educate Medicaid enrollees about the importance of maintaining current contact information with the state. These resources are intended to reduce avoidable coverage losses as eligibility-related changes begin to roll out in late 2026 and 2027. The toolkit includes flyers, presentation materials, and multilingual resources available in English, Spanish, and several additional languages. Click here to access the HFS toolkits.
In addition, through IHA’s participation in Cook County Health’s Medicaid Impact Workgroup, IHA is helping amplify public awareness efforts and distribute additional educational resources. This includes the “Get Medicaid Facts” website and accompanying multilingual communications materials designed to support hospitals, providers, and community organizations in educating patients and preparing for the upcoming changes.
Public Charge Test Revival
The U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS) is rescinding the 2022 public charge inadmissibility regulations (the “2022 Final Rule”). This final rule reverses the policy, which generally limited immigration officials’ consideration of an applicant’s receipt of public benefits to the green-card applicant’s use of cash benefits. Sixty days after the rule takes effect, immigration officers may consider an applicant's use of certain public benefits, including Medicaid, housing assistance, and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, when determining eligibility for lawful permanent resident status (a green card). The federal government estimates this policy change will result in reduced enrollment in public benefits programs, including by citizens in a mixed-status household. DHS estimates this could result in a reduction in approximately $13.05 billion annually due to disenrollment or forgone enrollment in public benefits programs. To view the finalized proposal, click here.
DHS Ends “Duration of Status” Policy, Finalizes Fixed Admission Period
On July 17, the U.S. Dept. of Homeland Security (DHS) posted a final rule that replaces the “duration of status” admission for certain nonimmigrant visa classifications with a fixed admission period. This final rule impacts F, J, and I classifications, including physicians on J-1 visas participating in residency and fellowship programs. The rule’s effective date is Sept. 15, 2026, subject to congressional review. Any change to the effective date because of congressional review will be published in the Federal Register.
Prior to this final rule, “duration of status” allowed J-1 visa holders to remain in the U.S. for the exact length of their program as listed on their immigration documents, plus a 30-day grace period. Under the final rule, J-1 visitors are admitted for the length of their program capped at four years at a time, plus the traditional 30-day grace period.
Should a J-1 visa holder’s program exceed their initial period of admission, they may apply for an extension of stay (EOS). DHS may grant an EOS for up to four additional years plus the 30-day grace period, provided the total EOS does not exceed the original length of the approved program. DHS encourages individuals that need an EOS to apply during the six months before their current period of stay expires.
J-1 visa holders currently in the U.S. under the duration of stay policy may remain in status through the program end date listed on their immigration documents for up to four years from this final rule’s effective date without filing an EOS request. DHS also finalized guidance for individuals who file a timely EOS application—such individuals may continue working or participating in authorized program activities for up to 240 days after their J-1 status expires while their EOS application remains pending.
Deadline Approaching: SAMHSA Behavioral Health Grants
This month, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced more than $281 million in behavioral health funding opportunities for 15 total grant programs. The programs address substance use treatment, overdose prevention, mental healthcare, suicide prevention, trauma-informed services, recovery supports, and workforce development. Eligibility is typically limited to non-profit and/or government entities.
Specifically, funding opportunities will include the following awards:
Applications are due Monday, July 27.
Staff contact: Lia Daniels
CMS Releases RFI on Clinical Laboratory Regulations
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services have released a request for information (RFI) on topics relating to Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments of 1988 regulations. Topics include breath testing, laboratory processes and procedures, emergency preparedness, biosafety and biosecurity, cybersecurity, and specialty testing areas. Comments will be accepted through Sept. 14.
ISBE Issues Guidance for Use of AI in K-12 Education
The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) this week issued new guidelines regarding the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in K-12 education. ISBE created the guidance with input from a panel of experts and notes that the initial drafts used AI tools, including ChatGPT. The guidelines stress that while AI can inform teaching and learning, it should never replace the essential human relationships and experiences that shape education. Read more here and here.
