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Democratic states sue over Medicaid work rules
Half of the states are suing the Trump administration over its directives for implementing Medicaid work requirements. These states, led by Democrats, argue that the exemptions for sick individuals are too narrow and violate administrative law. They contend the administration's rules will jeopardize care for vulnerable Americans and cause disruption. Twenty-five states and the District of Columbia filed a lawsuit in a federal court in Massachusetts. The lawsuit claims the rule makes it overly difficult for people to qualify for illness-related exemptions. States believe the rule will cause immediate and irreparable harm to their Medicaid programs. This harm includes straining safety net providers and increasing uncompensated emergency care. The suit was filed by 23 Democratic attorneys general and two Democratic governors. The states also allege the CMS rule deviates from previous guidance, violating administrative procedure laws. Medicaid enrollees will soon be required to log 80 hours of work or approved activities monthly to maintain benefits, with implementation starting no later than January 1st.