A federal judge has ruled that people with disabilities or serious health conditions do not have to prove they are unable to work to qualify for the “medically frail” exemption from new Medicaid work requirements.

Nevada was one of the states that challenged the federal guidance. The judge found that requiring people to prove their condition also prevents them from working could make it harder for eligible Nevadans to keep their coverage and continue receiving care.

This is an important step for people managing serious or complex health conditions. But the broader Medicaid work requirements are still scheduled to take effect January 1, 2027. Most adults covered through Medicaid expansion will still need to meet the monthly work, education, or community activity requirements unless they qualify for an exemption. Some paperwork rules also remain in place.

We should keep watching how Nevada Medicaid responds and make sure people get clear information about their coverage. Access to health care should not depend on a person being able to navigate a maze of paperwork while managing a serious illness.

Read More: Nevada Current