US SB2496

Extends continuous Medicaid and CHIP eligibility for newborns ("deemed newborns") from 1 year to 6 years of age, allowing children to remain enrolled without re-verification during this period

Requires states to provide continuous Medicaid eligibility for children under age 6 until they turn 6 or leave the state, and extends eligibility periods for children ages 6-18 from 12 months to 24 months

Guarantees former foster youth continuous Medicaid eligibility until age 26 or until they cease state residency, with coverage beginning January 1, 2023 for those turning 18 after that date

Mandates states establish processes to annually update contact information for enrollees in continuous eligibility periods exceeding 12 months and notify them of their enrollment status and remaining coverage duration

Takes effect 1 year after enactment, with former foster youth provisions applying 180 days after enactment for those not already covered under existing rules