LINCOLN, Neb.— Governor Jim Pillen has directed the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to seek federal approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to apply a temporary high-unemployment hardship for Medicaid expansion beneficiaries residing in Dawson County, Nebraska.
If approved by CMS, Medicaid expansion recipients residing in Dawson County would be temporarily exempt from Nebraska’s recently implemented Medicaid Work Requirements.
The hardship provision, authorized under Section 71119 of H.R. 1, also known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act”, allows states to request a hardship for counties if their unemployment rate exceeds 8% or is at least 1.5 times higher than the national average. Recently released economic data reviewed by the Governor’s Office and DHHS determined Dawson County meets the criteria for the hardship.
“Since the Tyson plant closure was announced, I have directed every available resource and state agency to do everything possible to support the Lexington community,” said Governor Pillen. “This request to CMS is another step to help provide relief and support to our fellow Nebraskans.”
Governor Pillen has also directed state agencies to continue coordinating workforce assistance, job placement services, benefit navigation, and community support resources for impacted residents and families.
“Our focus remains on helping Nebraskans get back on their feet and connected with new opportunities,” said DHHS CEO Steve Corsi. “Under Governor Pillen’s direction, DHHS and our partner agencies are continuing to work closely with local leaders, employers, and community organizations to ensure impacted residents have access to the support and services they need.”
For more information regarding Medicaid Work Requirements, including temporary hardships, visit the Nebraska DHHS website at https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/
