CMS rule extends Marketplace coverage to DACA recipients

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services May 3 released a final rule that would allow DACA recipients, young undocumented immigrants authorized to work in the U.S., to purchase coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace, qualify for Marketplace subsidies based on income, and apply for the Basic Health Program in states that participate — currently just Minnesota and New York. The agency estimates that this rule could lead to 100,000 uninsured DACA recipients enrolling in health insurance coverage. The rule goes into effect Nov. 1, 2024, with a special enrollment period that corresponds with the 2025 Marketplace open enrollment period. The agency did not finalize the Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Program policies included in the proposed rule.