A federal rule taking effect October 1 could end HUSKY Health coverage for some Connecticut residents who came to the United States as refugees, received asylum, survived human trafficking, or entered through humanitarian parole.

These groups have been able to qualify for Medicaid based on their immigration status. The new law narrows which noncitizens can receive federally funded Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program coverage. Connecticut’s Department of Social Services, or DSS, says people currently covered under the affected categories may lose their HUSKY Health eligibility. (portal.ct.gov)

The change does not mean every immigrant will lose coverage. It also does not mean everyone in the same family will lose coverage. Each person’s current immigration status, age, income, and type of coverage matter.

Who may be affected?

DSS lists refugees, asylees, trafficking victims, and humanitarian parolees among the groups that will no longer qualify for HUSKY Health under those immigration categories beginning October 1. Some people may qualify under a different category. (portal.ct.gov)

For example, someone who first received asylum and later became a lawful permanent resident, or green card holder, should make sure DSS has proof of their current status. DSS says lawful permanent residents who have held that status for at least five years may still qualify. Cuban and Haitian entrants and citizens of countries covered by Compacts of Free Association may also remain eligible. Other rules and exceptions can apply. (portal.ct.gov)

A person may still describe themselves as a refugee or asylee years after obtaining a green card. For a benefits review, the person’s current immigration status matters. Families should not assume that DSS already has an updated record.

What about undocumented children?

Connecticut offers State HUSKY A and State HUSKY B to eligible children who cannot get regular HUSKY coverage because of their immigration status, including undocumented children. Children can enroll through age 15. Those who enroll before turning 16 may remain covered through age 18. Household income and other program rules apply. (portal.ct.gov)

These programs use state funds. The Oct. 1 change to federally funded coverage does not, by itself, end a child’s state-funded HUSKY coverage. A parent’s loss of coverage also does not automatically mean their child will lose coverage. Families should ask for each child’s eligibility to be reviewed separately, whether the child is a U.S. citizen, has an immigration status or is undocumented. (portal.ct.gov)

DSS says a child applying for State HUSKY A or B does not have to provide immigration documents if the child lacks a status that qualifies them for regular Medicaid or CHIP. Families may still need to provide information about household income and respond to requests for proof of income. Applications can be made through Access Health CT at 1-855-805-4325. (portal.ct.gov)

Connecticut also has separate coverage pathways for certain pregnant people who do not qualify for Medicaid because of immigration status. A pregnant person should ask about those options rather than assume the October 1 rule leaves them without any coverage. (www.medicaid.gov)

What should families expect from DSS?

DSS says it will notify households if the federal changes affect anyone in the home. It will also tell them if documents or other information are needed and how to submit them. Families should check that DSS has their current mailing address and read every notice carefully. (portal.ct.gov)

A notice should be reviewed for the name of the person affected, the reason for the decision, the date coverage changes, and any deadline to respond. Someone whose immigration status has changed should provide the documents DSS requests and keep a copy or submission confirmation.

If a decision appears to be based on incorrect information, families should follow the notice’s instructions for requesting a hearing. Acting promptly matters, especially when someone needs regular medical appointments or prescription medicine. (portal.ct.gov)

Where can people get help?

If coverage is ending, Access Health CT can check whether someone qualifies for another health plan. Marketplace coverage has its own eligibility and cost rules, which are also changing for some immigrants. Families should ask what a plan would cost each month and what they would pay when they receive care. (www.accesshealthct.com)

The New American Dream Foundation is a DSS community partner and offers free appointments to help individuals understand DSS services, benefits, and notices. To schedule help, call 475-296-3559 and ask for a CT DSS Benefits Support appointment. Families can also contact DSS at 1-855-626-6632 or Access Health CT at 1-855-805-4325. (portal.ct.gov)

The most important step is to review each person’s situation. A change in one family member’s HUSKY eligibility does not answer whether a child, spouse or pregnant person can remain covered.

Sources: Connecticut Department of Social Services; Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services; Access Health CT.