Care for Military Kids Act of 2025

This bill aims to keep Medicaid coverage steady for military families who have to move because of service. If a service member or their dependent is getting home- and community-based services (or is on a waiting list for them) and relocates to another state, the new state must treat them like a resident for Medicaid. It also protects their place on the waiting list after the move and allows care to be paid for in the new state so services aren’t disrupted. The bill sets aside federal funds to help put these changes in place and sets timelines for when they start.

Key points

• Who is affected: Active-duty service members, recently separated members (within 12 months), and their dependents who receive, or are on a waiting list for, home- and community-based Medicaid services when they move for military reasons.
• What changes: The new state treats them as residents for Medicaid; they keep their spot on any services waiting list; and Medicaid can pay for care in the new state to maintain access.
• When: Most changes take effect at enactment, with the residency and coverage protections starting January 1, 2028. States may get extra time if they need to pass their own laws. The federal government provides $1,000,000 per year from 2026 through 2030 to support implementation.