CMS, OIG STEP UP IMMIGRANT MEDICAID CRACKDOWN: CALIFORNIA FLAGGED FOR $52.7M REPAYMENT

Fox reports that a 2024 HHS OIG audit found California improperly sought $52.7 million in federal Medicaid reimbursements tied to noncitizens with unsatisfactory immigration status, recommending the state repay the funds. The piece situates the audit and emergency Medicaid rules within a broader CMS push to verify immigrant eligibility and an escalating political fight amid shutdown negotiations. It notes several states fund broader coverage for undocumented residents with state dollars, while federal reimbursement is limited to emergencies. GOP leaders cite the audit to argue Democrats’ funding proposal would expand benefits for illegal immigrants; Democrats dispute the claim.