Keep Kids Covered Act

This bill aims to keep kids on Medicaid and CHIP without gaps. Newborns who qualify would stay covered until their 6th birthday, even if family income or paperwork changes during that time . For older kids, it lengthens “continuous eligibility” so children can stay enrolled longer before another check is required, increasing the standard from 12 months to 24 months under Medicaid; it also keeps former foster youth covered until age 26 if they remain in the State . States must also reach out at least once a year to update contact info and tell families how much time is left in their continuous coverage period .

Most changes would start one year after the bill becomes law. For former foster youth, the coverage rule applies starting January 1, 2023 for those who turned 18 on or after that date, and for others beginning 180 days after this bill becomes law .

• Who is affected:

  • Newborns on Medicaid/CHIP
  • Children and teens enrolled in Medicaid/CHIP
  • Former foster youth

• What changes:

  • Newborns stay covered until age 6
  • Longer continuous coverage for kids (12 months to 24 months under Medicaid)
  • Former foster youth stay covered until age 26 if they remain in-State
  • Annual check-ins to update contact info and notify families about remaining coverage time

• When:

  • Most provisions take effect 1 year after enactment
  • Special timing for former foster youth: January 1, 2023 (for those turning 18 on/after that date) and 180 days after enactment for others