FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 31 2026
Contact:
Jon Ebelt, Communications Director,
DPHHS, (406) 444-0936, (406) 461-3757
jebelt@mt.gov
DPHHS Launches New Online Resource for Medicaid Community Engagement Requirements
HELENA, MT — The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) today announced the launch of a new, comprehensive website designed to help Montanans navigate upcoming changes to the state’s Medicaid program.
Following the Montana Legislature’s reauthorization of the Medicaid Expansion program and congressional passage of H.R. 1, a federal law that was enacted on July 4, 2025, DPHHS is preparing to implement new community engagement requirements for certain Medicaid Expansion participants beginning July 1, 2026.
The new website serves as a central hub for information, providing clarity on how these changes affect current and future Medicaid members.
“Our priority is to ensure that Montanans covered by Medicaid Expansion have the information they need to make decisions about their health care,” DPHHS Director Charlie Brereton said. “This new website serves as a single source of truth for our members as we begin requiring them to engage in work or work-related activities to be eligible for health coverage.”
Key Changes Coming July 2026
Under the new federal law, non-exempt adults aged 19–64 who receive coverage through the Medicaid Expansion program will be required to complete 80 hours of community engagement activities per month to remain eligible for coverage.
These activities include employment, community service, workforce training or state-sponsored work readiness programs, internships or registered apprenticeships, and educational programs (college or vocational training).
DPHHS officials emphasize that these new requirements for able-bodied adults are intended to encourage self-sufficiency, drive workforce participation, and reduce reliance on public assistance programs.
Exempted Populations
DPHHS officials emphasize that these requirements for able-bodied adults are intended to encourage self-sufficiency, drive workforce participation, and reduce reliance on public assistance programs.
The website details exemptions for individuals who may be unable to meet the 80-hour work requirement. Some, but not all, of the exemptions include:
- American Indian/Alaska Natives
- Adults aged 65 or older
- Parents or caregivers of dependent children under age 13
- Parents or caregivers of individuals with disabilities
- Pregnant and postpartum individuals (up to 12 months)
- Individuals eligible for Medicare
- Those who are medically frail
- Veterans with disabilities rated as total
- Individuals currently or recently incarcerated
DPHHS to Conduct Outreach to Medicaid Members
DPHHS is reaching out to all Medicaid members via mail to explain the new community engagement requirements. To avoid missing critical communications with upcoming deadlines, members are encouraged to verify their contact information at apply.mt.gov.
For more information on community engagement requirements and exemptions, visit medicaidchanges.mt.gov. DPHHS will continue to update the website as new federal guidance becomes available.