Exclusive: Republicans in the Colorado Legislature are urging the state to prevent illegal immigrants from registering for Health First Colorado, the state’s Medicaid program.
This initiative, which started this year, may make it possible for illegal immigrants meeting specific criteria nationwide to receive assistance. On Wednesday, Republicans submitted a proposal to Democrat Gov. Jared Polis. The Health First Colorado website states, “Don’t let your immigration status stop you from applying for health insurance.”
“Other Democrat-led states like California and Minnesota are realizing that these policies are costly and detrimental for Medicaid users. They’re starting to retract provisions that offer free and subsidized healthcare to illegal immigrants, despite potentially not knowing that one key law mandates it,” a Republican pointed out.
Adding to this discussion, a recent poll indicated that many Californians oppose extending essential benefits to illegal immigrants.
“It’s frustrating to see Colorado continually prioritize those unlawfully present over Americans who genuinely need Medicaid. I suggest we reassess our approach,” one Republican remarked.
According to the letter sent, Colorado is among seven states providing public health insurance regardless of immigration status. California, Minnesota, and Illinois have recently made adjustments to their Medicaid systems.
Minnesota and Illinois have restricted access as part of budget negotiations, while California is exploring options that might pause new registrations as its legislature addresses budget concerns. Interestingly, a recent survey in California revealed that a significant majority—almost 60%—opposes the inclusion of illegal immigrants in the Medicaid program, despite the law being implemented last year.
Lawmakers noted that proposed legislation could subject states to considerable penalties for offering benefits to illegal immigrants, as Medicaid is funded by both federal and state taxpayers.
“There’s a pressing need to revise this policy, especially with potential changes to federal Medicaid funding ratios impacting sanctuary states. This could lead to significant budget challenges for Colorado if this approach continues,” the letter indicates.
A representative from Gov. Polis’s office stated that they believe the current Senate legislation needs a complete overhaul compared to the House version.
Despite the opposition, Gov. Polis expressed disappointment over the lawmakers’ efforts to reshape Medicaid, arguing that such reforms could escalate insurance costs for everyone, pushing nearly 400,000 Coloradans out of care and increasing expenses for those with commercial insurance.
Polis remains committed to urging the Senate to revise this concerning bill, advocating for true protections for Medicaid recipients and enhancing grants to ensure affordability for healthcare in Colorado.
