Montana reauthorized its Medicaid program under new legislation that also adds work requirements to the program, according to The Lewiston Tribune.
Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock signed the bill May 9, which reauthorized the state's Medicaid program for another six years. In addition, able-bodied Medicaid recipients will be required to participate in 80 hours of work or community service each month to maintain their benefits.
Hospitals also face a tax under the new legislation to leverage more federal money and increase reimbursement rates for Medicaid claims, according to the report.
While supporters of the legislation say it creates jobs, helps rural hospitals stay open and reduces hospitals' uncompensated care costs, opponents worry the addition of work requirements will lead to coverage gaps.
More articles on payers:
Judge steps down from UnitedHealth case over 'immoral' denial of cancer treatment
House Democrats unveil Medicare expansion plan: 8 things to know
Humana posts $566M profit in Q1