Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and the Arkansas Department of Human Services announced the soft launch of the state’s Medicaid work requirement will begin July 1, 2026. The program applies to eligible adults enrolled in the Arkansas Health and Opportunity for Me (ARHOME) Medicaid program.
During the soft launch, DHS will notify beneficiaries whether they meet the new work and community engagement requirements or qualify for an exemption. No penalties will be issued during 2026.
Beginning January 1, 2027, eligible adults ages 19 through 64 who are not exempt must complete at least 80 hours each month of work, school, or volunteer service to maintain Medicaid coverage. Exemptions include pregnant and postpartum women, disabled veterans, caregivers, and individuals with certain medical conditions.
State officials say approximately 210,000 Arkansans are currently enrolled in ARHOME. Beneficiaries who do not meet the requirement after January 1, 2027, will have 30 days to demonstrate compliance before benefits are suspended.
Governor Sanders said the program encourages employment, education, volunteerism, and self-sufficiency, while DHS Secretary Janet Mann said meaningful work promotes better health and economic independence.
Officials say the new requirements align Arkansas with federal law requiring Medicaid work and community engagement programs by January 1, 2027.
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