New CMS Medicaid work mandate draws scrutiny from mental health groups

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on June 1 issued a sweeping interim final rule that, for the first time, establishes nationwide “community engagement” requirements — effectively work mandates — for many adult Medicaid enrollees, while simultaneously opening the policy to public comment. The rule requires certain beneficiaries to document at least 80 hours per month of work, education, or community service as a condition of eligibility, with implementation required by Jan. 1, 2027.