COLUMBUS, OH -- Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) Director Maureen Corcoran on Feb 28th, announced that ODM has submitted a proposal to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to allow Ohio to reinstate a work requirement for individuals receiving Medicaid expansion benefits.

Under the proposal, Medicaid expansion enrollees would need to be at least age 55, or be employed, be enrolled in school or a job training program, be in a recovery program, or have a serious physical or mental health illness to receive benefits.

Ohio previously received federal approval for a similar proposal in 2019, only to have that approval revoked.

“As part of our work to empower people reach their full potential, we have a responsibility to make sure as many Ohioans as possible are on a pathway toward financial independence,” said Governor DeWine. “Reinstating our work requirement will promote self-sufficiency, it will give more people the purpose and pride that comes with a job, and it will improve the well-being of Ohio’s workforce.”

Letter of Support: Governor DeWine | Ohio House | Ohio Senate

There is a strong connection between being employed and improved health. There are currently more than 150,000 jobs on OhioMeansJobs.com waiting to be filled – the majority with a salary over $50,000. The goal of a work requirement will be to connect people who are part of the expansion population with great jobs like these.

“We are dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare to millions of Ohioans every day, empowering them to take control of their own health,” said ODM Director Maureen Corcoran, “By encouraging them to seek employment, we not only enhance their quality of life, but also contribute to healthier communities and a thriving economy in Ohio.”

ODM submitted the request to reinstate work requirements for the Medicaid expansion population at the direction of Governor DeWine, in accordance with a statutory requirement included in House Bill 33, which was supported by the 135th General Assembly and signed by Governor DeWine in July 2023.

By encouraging employment and education, this initiative aims to reduce reliance on Medicaid services over time, fostering a healthier and more economically secure Ohio. Studies have consistently shown a strong connection between employment and improved physical and mental health. With more Ohioans engaged in work or advancing their education, the state economy benefits from a stronger, healthier workforce, while Medicaid resources can be preserved for those with the most critical needs.

ODM’s waiver proposal to CMS and other documents can be found here.