WA budget includes 150M to maintain health coverage for low-income immigrants

Washington state's Legislature has approved a budget plan that maintains $150 million for the Apple Health Expansion program, providing Medicaid-like coverage for low-income immigrants. This program, initiated last year, faces potential challenges as Republicans in Congress advance legislation to penalize states with similar health care initiatives. Currently, the federal government covers 90% of Medicaid costs, but states opting to support immigrants could see this match reduced to 80%. Advocates, including Catalina Velasquez, emphasize the program's importance in safeguarding health care for marginalized communities. They highlight the risks immigrants face when seeking these benefits, with some risking deportation to access necessary health care.

Critics, particularly state Republicans, argue that the budget should prioritize services for citizens, especially given the recent multi-billion dollar budget shortfall. Washington’s Health Care Authority is monitoring federal discussions regarding Medicaid funding changes, but the financial implications remain uncertain. The budget bill awaits the signature of Governor Bob Ferguson.