Litigation

Center Safeguards Critical Rights of Medicaid Recipients in Missouri

To protect the rights of Medicaid recipients in Missouri, the Center filed a federal class action lawsuit in June 2005 in the Western District of Missouri challenging the implementation of cuts in state's Medicaid program. The cuts dis-enrolled more than 24,000 parents and caretaker relatives due to a reduction in income limits from 75% of the federal poverty level to an unbelievable 23% of the federal poverty level. Our challenge alleged that Missouri's dis-enrollment caused eligible persons to lose Medicaid and that Missouri had failed to provide adequate notice and opportunities for fair hearings. In the fall of 2005 we secured a settlement that enabled those whose benefits were taken away to have their case reviewed, and, if they are eligible for reinstatement, to be reimbursed for out-of-pocket health care costs. Pursuant to the settlement, more than 2,000 families have had their benefits reinstated. The Center was lead counsel, working with Beetem & Card LLC and the National Health Law Program. (Wilson v. Sherman)