LANSING, MI (WTVB) – Legislation sponsored by State Senator Mike Shirkey (R-Clark Lake) that would require able-bodied Medicaid recipients to work at least 29 hours a week to qualify for the healthcare coverage has cleared the Senate, but it is facing changes.
It’s estimated the legislation would impact 350,000 Michigan residents.
The House version is expected to lower the requirement to 20 hours per week after discussions with Governor Snyder. Shirkey said he would be willing to go along.
State Senator Coleman Young of Detroit is among the opponents. He says Detroit already has the lowest life expectancy in the nation and this will not help.
Recipients who are caring for young children, disabled family members or elderly parents would be exempted from the requirement.
Those living in counties with high unemployment rates would also be exempted.
