Westchester Disabled on the Move Launches Campaign to Prepare Residents for Federal Medicaid Changes

YONKERS, NY — September 16 - Westchester Disabled on the Move, Inc. (WDOM) announced today that it is launching a major public education and awareness campaign to help consumers navigate significant upcoming changes to Medicaid eligibility, re-enrollment, and work requirements.

With federal rules under H.R. 1 scheduled to take effect beginning January 1, 2027, certain adults ages 19 to 64 enrolled in Medicaid may be required to meet monthly work, education, or community service criteria, as well as transition to a six-month renewal cycle. Notices regarding potential impact are expected to be issued by September 30, 2026, with immigration-related eligibility adjustments beginning October 1, 2026.

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To ensure Westchester residents remain covered and informed, WDOM's outreach initiative will focus on consumer education, re-enrollment assistance, and identifying qualifying exceptions.

"Medicaid enrollment and recertification are at the core of what we have done for over 40 years, and we have been directly funded for these navigations since 2018," said Maria Samuels, Executive Director of Westchester Disabled on the Move. "H.R. 1 presents a complex regulatory challenge that no one could have anticipated, but adaptability is nothing new to us—much like our response during COVID. We prioritized launching this campaign early because WDOM serves the entire community, providing Medicaid services to both disabled individuals and non-disabled residents through the NYS Marketplace. Our message to Westchester is simple: we are here to help you understand these changes and keep your coverage intact."

Key Changes Coming to Medicaid in 2027 Include:

• Work & Activity Requirements: Some adults ages 19–64 may need to complete 80 hours per month of approved activities—such as employment, higher education/job training, or volunteering—or earn at least $580 per month.
• Six-Month Renewals: Most covered adults in the 19–64 demographic will need to renew their coverage every six months.
• Wide-Ranging Exceptions: Exceptions exist for individuals enrolled in Medicaid with a disability, those with physical or mental health conditions, pregnant individuals, caregivers, certain foster youth, veterans, and other qualifying groups.
• Immediate Action Required: Residents should update their contact information with NY State of Health or the local Department of Social Services, review all official notices immediately, and keep documentation of work, school, or medical status.

WDOM specialists are available to assist residents with checking eligibility, gathering necessary documentation, and completing recertification paperwork. For assistance or to learn more, contact Westchester Disabled on the Move at 914-968-4717 or visit wdom.org.

About Westchester Disabled On the Move Inc.

Westchester Disabled On the Move, Inc. (WDOM) is a non-profit, non-residential Center for Independent Living (CIL) that has been serving Westchester County for over 40 years. WDOM is dedicated to promoting the philosophy of Independent Living, which includes consumer control, peer support, self-help, self-determination, and advocacy to remove physical, attitudinal, and programmatic barriers for people with disabilities.