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Medi-Cal Rules are Changing: What to Expect

September 25, 2025

Medi-Cal, California's Medicaid program serving over one-third of the state including 1. 6 million undocumented residents, is implementing significant changes from 2026 through 2028 due to state budget cuts and federal legislation. These changes include freezing new enrollments for full-scope Medi-Cal for undocumented adults starting January 2026, ending routine dental coverage for undocumented adults in July 2026, and introducing a $30 monthly premium requirement beginning July 2027.

Who is affected

  • Undocumented adults aged 19 and older
  • Adults on Medi-Cal between ages 19 and 64 (for work requirements)
  • Full Medi-Cal members aged 19-64 without dependent children under 19 (for twice-yearly renewals)
  • Adults with legal immigration status (for potential copayments)
  • Older adults and people with disabilities (for asset limits)
  • Potentially up to 3.4 million Medi-Cal members at risk of losing coverage

What action is being taken

  • DHCS is sending multiple notices ahead of time regarding the monthly premium
  • The department is working to automate eligibility processes to minimize paperwork
  • DHCS is setting up processes and systems to reduce the number of people who might lose coverage
  • Members are being advised to keep their contact information updated
  • Counties are sending text messages to members requiring responses

Why it matters

  • New enrollments for full-scope Medi-Cal for undocumented adults will freeze starting January 1, 2026
  • Routine dental coverage will end for undocumented adults 19 and older as of July 1, 2026
  • A $30 monthly premium will be required for undocumented adults 19-59 starting July 1, 2027
  • Work, volunteer, school or job training requirements are being implemented for adults 19-64
  • Certain members will need to renew coverage twice yearly instead of annually
  • Asset limits are returning for older adults and those with disabilities
  • The changes could potentially cause 3.4 million members to lose coverage

What's next

  • No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint

Medi-Cal Rules are Changing: What to Expect