Approximately 177,000 legally residing immigrants in Florida could face the loss of their Medicaid coverage starting this Thursday. This development follows the implementation of new federal restrictions that redefine eligibility based on immigration status, as reported by Telemundo 51.
The change stems from the federal law H.R. 1, dubbed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," which was enacted by President Trump on July 4, 2025. This legislation introduces the most comprehensive restrictions on immigrant access to Medicaid seen in decades. The new regulations became effective on October 1, 2026.
Impact on Refugees and Asylees
Under the new rules, access to federally funded Medicaid is denied to refugees, asylees, and humanitarian parole recipients who lack other protected statuses under the law. Historically, immigrants with legal status in these categories had full access to the program; the new law, however, closes this opportunity for those not fitting into specifically protected groups.
Who Retains Medicaid Access?
The following groups remain eligible for federally funded Medicaid under the revised rules:
- Legal permanent residents, i.e., Green Card holders.
- Cuban and Haitian entrants with special entry status.
- Immigrants from Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau under the Compact of Free Association (COFA).
Exceptions also exist for children under 19 and pregnant women residing legally in the U.S. U.S. citizens are not affected by these restrictions.
Specific Concerns for the Cuban Community
For the Cuban community, the situation presents unique nuances. The "Cuban/Haitian entrant" category, applicable to Cubans admitted with parole, pending removal proceedings, or asylum applications, is explicitly protected and retains full Medicaid access, albeit potentially limited to seven years from status grant.
However, simply being Cuban does not ensure exemption; individuals must fall under this specific category or another legally protected one. Those applying for residency under the Cuban Adjustment Act enjoy additional protection, as receiving Medicaid or other public aid cannot be used to deny residency. This is due to a statutory exemption from the public charge inadmissibility clause, reaffirmed in the July 2026 Federal Register.
Immigration attorney Willy Allen III emphasized, "If I'm Cuban using the Adjustment Act and have received aid, I'm not concerned. It doesn't matter, because it's an exception and remains so."
The implications aren't confined to Florida. In Illinois, over 9,000 immigrants also face the loss of full coverage starting this Thursday.
Instructions for Those Receiving DCF Letters
The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) verifies immigration status through the federal SAVE system. When electronic confirmation is unsuccessful, a notification is sent requesting documents from the beneficiary.
Recipients of such letters must provide the requested documentation before the specified deadline via the MyACCESS platform, mail, or fax to the number listed in the notification. The DCF call center is available at 850-300-4323 for assistance.
Failure to submit valid documentation may result in the termination of coverage. Emergency Medicaid remains available for urgent medical care but does not equate to regular coverage.
This Thursday also marks the start of the annual Open Enrollment period for Florida's Statewide Medicaid Managed Care program, running until November 30. During this time, individuals with Medicaid can change plans without justification, a process separate from the immigration-related restrictions.
The shifting landscape of benefit access based on immigration status is rapidly evolving. Stay informed by following our U.S. Immigration section for the latest updates.
FAQs on Medicaid Changes for Immigrants in Florida
Who is affected by the new Medicaid restrictions in Florida?
Refugees, asylees, and humanitarian parole recipients without other protected statuses are affected by the new rules, as they will lose access to federally funded Medicaid.
Which groups still retain Medicaid eligibility under the new rules?
Legal permanent residents, Cuban and Haitian entrants, and immigrants from Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, and Palau under COFA remain eligible for Medicaid. Exceptions are also in place for children under 19 and pregnant women residing legally in the U.S.
What should individuals do if they receive a letter from the DCF about their Medicaid status?
Individuals should provide the required documents by the deadline using the MyACCESS platform, mail, or fax. They can also contact the DCF call center for assistance to avoid losing their coverage.