New Jersey DHS Medicaid · October 24, 2026 · Primary source
Testimony of Commissioner Dr. Stephen Cha Before the New Jersey Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee
Summary
New Jersey Human Services Commissioner Dr. Stephen Cha testified before the New Jersey Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee on the operational and coverage impacts of H.R. 1, which cuts Medicaid and SNAP by more than one trillion dollars over ten years. The testimony details the scope of Medicaid work requirements taking effect January 1 for approximately 540,000 expansion adults ages 19-64, who will face six-month renewal cycles and work-reporting obligations, with the state projecting 165,000 to 300,000 coverage losses by the end of state fiscal year 2028 and up to six billion dollars in annual lost federal funding by fiscal year 2029. The Commissioner also addressed the October 1 non-citizen eligibility changes, SNAP cost-shifts raising the state's administrative cost share from 50 to 75 percent, and the multistate lawsuit co-led by the New Jersey Attorney General challenging the CMS interim final rule.
What this may mean
Beginning January 1, Medicaid expansion adults in New Jersey must demonstrate work, volunteering, or school attendance and renew eligibility every six months under H.R. 1; the state projects between 165,000 and 300,000 coverage losses by the end of fiscal year 2028. Provider-side Medicaid payment cuts beginning in fiscal year 2029 could reduce annual federal funding to New Jersey by approximately six billion dollars. The SNAP administrative cost shift from 50 to 75 percent took effect October 1, and a payment-error-rate penalty mechanism beginning in October 2027 could shift an additional $300 million annually to New Jersey taxpayers.
Informational only. Not legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Always consult a qualified professional familiar with your specific facts before relying on any item.
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