H.R. 1: Key Policy Changes Taking Effect 

H.R. 1: Understanding Changes to Medicaid, CHIP and SNAP

On October 1, 2026, key policies of H.R. 1, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, took effect with significant implications for our equal justice communities.  

Medicaid and CHIP: New eligibility restrictions limit federally funded Medicaid and CHIP coverage for many lawfully present immigrants, including refugees, asylees, certain humanitarian parolees, and survivors of trafficking, who may no longer qualify for comprehensive coverage based on their immigration status. States must reassess potentially affected enrollees under the new eligibility rules. 

SNAP: Beginning in October 2026, states will assume a greater cost share of SNAP administrative costs, increasing from 50% to 75%, while the federal share decreases from 50% to 25%. This increased state financial responsibility could impact how states administer SNAP and create additional challenges for navigating eligibility, benefit applications, and administrative appeals.