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Medicaid News & Updates

Upcoming H.R. 1 Virtual Town Halls

This fall, Virginia Medicaid will host a series of virtual Town Halls dedicated to informing the public about impending Medicaid changes as a result of a new federal law. In these Town Halls, people can learn who may be affected, who may qualify for an exemption, how reporting will work, key implementation dates, and resources available to help members remain covered. 

Registration is required, and live attendance is limited to 1,000 participants. The Town Hall will be recorded and posted online for anyone who is unable to attend the live event or would like to view it at a later time. During registration, participants may submit questions in advance for Virginia Medicaid subject matter experts to address during the Town Hall. After registering, participants will automatically receive a calendar invitation with information and a link to join the Town Hall.

Please note that the Town Hall scheduled for September 15th is now full.

Changes to Medicaid Eligibility
for Noncitizen Adults

Federally required changes to noncitizen eligibility for Medicaid will start October 1, 2026. Once the changes are made, non-pregnant adults with certain immigration statuses will no longer be eligible for full-benefit Medicaid.  The new law does not change Virginia Medicaid or FAMIS eligibility rules for noncitizen children or pregnant individuals. Frequently Asked Questions If a non-U.S. citizen is going to lose Medicaid coverage, how much advance notice will they have? Letters were sent on August 2, 2026, to notify individuals who were identified as potentially at risk of losing full-benefit Medicaid coverage and who may need to update their immigration status information. Members have 30 calendar days to provide additional information about their immigration status to the state. After the 30-day period, the state will review information provided and redetermine the individual’s eligibility using the new rules. No one will have their coverage reduced or ended based on the new rules before October 1, 2026, and without first being provided written notice of the change. What resources are available to help individuals find affordable medications, including prescription assistance programs, discount programs, low-cost pharmacy resources, and state or community supports?  Resources are available through the Virginia Department of Social Services and DMAS public-facing webpages, with additional resources expected to be added.   How and where should a member report an address change or updated immigration status information?  Members can contact their eligibility worker at the local Department of Social Services, call the Cover Virginia Call Center, or contact DMAS through their member account on commonhelp.virginia.gov. Individuals who received a letter and need to report updated immigration-status information, such as proof of Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status, can use the contact information provided in the letter.  For the full list of frequently asked questions regarding eligibility for non-U.S. citizen adults, visit the link below.

Western VA/Charlottesville Members:
Cardinal Care Open Enrollment is Here!

Updates on Adult Dental Services

Fall Into Better Eating Habits!

This fall, make healthy eating part of your wellness routine. You don't have to give up your favorite foods, but remember to practice moderation and incorporate nutritious foods into your daily diet. Small, healthy choices can add up to a healthier lifestyle for you and your family.    Enjoy a variety of fruits and vegetables, including apples, sweet potatoes, pumpkin,  squash, and leafy greens.    Eat whole grains and lean proteins, like oatmeal, brown rice, beans, fish, poultry, eggs, and nuts.    Avoid added sugar and choose water instead of sugary drinks.    If you need help with healthy eating, talk with your healthcare provider about nutrition and whether nutritional counseling may be available through your Cardinal Care coverage, particularly if you have a chronic health condition.

What's Happening Around the Commonwealth?

Governor Spanberger Thanks Working Virginians, Highlights New Worker Protections on Labor Day

Governor Abigail Spanberger is highlighting new worker protections and benefits signed into law this year to support working Virginians and their families. The new laws expand access to paid leave, strengthen workplace protections, increase pay transparency, and help workers keep more money in their pockets. Virginia will also become the first state in the South to offer 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave, allowing eligible workers to take time off to welcome a new child, care for a loved one, or recover from an illness without losing their pay. Key Changes for Workers Paid family and medical leave will provide up to 12 weeks of paid time off for eligible workers A new statewide paid sick leave policy will allow workers to earn up to 5 paid sick days per year Virginia's minimum wage will increase to $13.75 per hour in 2027 and $15 per hour in 2028 New laws strengthen protections against wage theft, workplace discrimination, and unfair hiring practices Expanded unemployment benefits and additional workplace protections will support workers across a variety of industries Learn more about these new worker protections and benefits in the link below.

Governor Spanberger Convenes First Meeting of Commission on Unlocking Housing Production

Governor Abigail Spanberger has convened the first meeting of the Commission on Unlocking Housing Production, a statewide effort focused on increasing housing supply, expanding opportunities for first-time homebuyers, and making housing more affordable for Virginia families.

Virginia is currently facing a shortage of affordable housing, with a deficit of nearly 300,000 affordable rental homes and median home prices exceeding $400,000. The Commission will bring together state agencies, housing experts, local governments, and industry partners to identify ways to increase housing production, reduce barriers to development, and expand access to affordable housing across the Commonwealth. The effort builds on recent investments and legislation aimed at lowering housing costs and supporting more Virginians in finding homes they can afford.

What Does This Mean for Virginians?

• Expanded efforts to increase the supply of affordable housing
• More support for first-time homebuyers
• Continued investments in housing development across Virginia
• New strategies to reduce barriers that can drive up housing costs

Learn more about the Commission on Unlocking Housing Production and Virginia's efforts to make housing more affordable in the link below.

Strengthening Your Community

Find Career Resources

Volunteer Virtually

Looking for flexible ways to give back? Volunteer.gov offers virtual opportunities that allow you to support your community from home.

Apply to Community College

Medicaid members may qualify for FREE Community College. G3 tuition assistance is for students living in Virginia who qualify for state financial aid with a household income that's less than $111,000. G3 is available in six of Virginia's most in-demand industries, including Education, Healthcare, Hospitality & Culinary Arts, Information Technology, Public Safety, and Skilled Trades & Manufacturing.

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