Gov. Kim Reynolds says she directed the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services to seek federal approval for Medicaid work requirements.
The requirements would apply to people who get their health insurance through Iowa’s Medicaid expansion, which covers about 170,000 people. They would have to work at least 100 hours per month or meet other listed requirements. A bill pending in the Senate would have required 80 hours of work.
People who have disabilities, are caring for a child under the age of six, and are receiving unemployment benefits would be exempt, among others.
In a statement, Reynolds said able-bodied adults who can work should be working. She said Medicaid should return to its core purpose, that is, “to provide coverage to the people who truly need it.”
A 30-day public comment period is now open and the state plans to hold two public hearings on the waiver request. If approved, the work requirements would take effect in January.
This story was updated at 4:48 p.m. April 15, 2025.