Community Engagement

As required by Section 71119 of Public Law 119-21 (Working Families Tax Cut legislation), beginning January 1, 2027, states must condition Medicaid eligibility for “applicable individuals” on their demonstration of community engagement, unless a state opts to implement community engagement sooner.

Community engagement has potential to empower Medicaid beneficiaries through employment, education, or volunteer service so they can escape isolation and dependency, build confidence, and achieve self-sufficiency.

Implementation of the new community engagement requirements will necessitate major system, policy, and operational changes to state programs in the coming years. CMS is committed to supporting states in this effort and anticipates that ongoing partnership and engagement with states and other stakeholders will inform areas of need for additional guidance, including rulemaking by June 2026.

Overview Resources

• Community Engagement CMCS Informational Bulletin – provides summary information on Section 71119.
• Community Engagement Overview Slide Deck – provides summary information as outlined in the Community Engagement Informational Bulletin.

State Medicaid System Improvements

• Press Release: Medicaid Technology Companies Pledge $600M in Savings to Support Community Engagement and Related State Medicaid System Improvements
• Fact Sheet: Pledges from Medicaid Technology Companies to Support Community Engagement Implementation and Related Medicaid System Improvements

Technical Assistance

States can email MedicaidWorks@cms.hhs.gov for technical assistance related to community engagement.