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Monterey County officials warn HR1 changes could sharply cut Medi‑Cal, CalFresh support and strain Natividad
Summary
County health, social services and Natividad leaders told the Board of Supervisors that the federal reconciliation bill known as HR1 and related state budget changes will reduce eligibility, increase verification frequency and shift costs to counties, potentially costing Natividad millions and raising administrative burdens for county programs.
Monterey County health officials and the CEO of Natividad hospital told the Board of Supervisors on Sept. 30 that federal and state changes tied to HR1 (the federal reconciliation bill) will shrink enrollment, increase administrative work and risk substantial funding losses for local safety‑net providers.
The warning came during a staff briefing on the timeline and local effects of HR1 and the 2025–26 California budget. Roderick Franks, director of Social Services, said the situation is "still an evolving environment" and that available guidance could change federal and state implementation details.
County officials said effects begin as early as Jan. 1, 2026, when an asset test for some Medi‑Cal enrollees will be reinstated and when adults in some immigration status categories will no longer be eligible for new full‑scope Medi‑Cal enrollments. The county’s summary showed several points of concern: frequent redeterminations (every six months…
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