Statement from State Senator Gustavo Rivera and Assemblymember Jessica Gonzalez Rojas on Health and Human Services’s Response Confirming New York's Ability To Provide Healthcare Coverage to Undocumented New Yorkers

“The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) responded to a letter that we sent along with 63 of our colleagues asking for clarification on the utilization of the 1332 State Innovation Waiver to provide healthcare to New Yorkers who are otherwise ineligible due to their immigration status. Our letter was written in support of an initial letter sent by Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration, which was agreed to thanks to strong support from our conference leaders during the budget process, on the potential use of federal funding to expand health coverage to this population."

"Given the federal government’s clear guidance, it is essential that we pass our Coverage 4 All bill (S2237A / A3020A) before the end of the legislative session to ensure the Governor has the full authority to pursue approval for use of eligible federal funds under the 1332 waiver program, including surplus pass-through funding. The passage of this bill will secure quality and affordable healthcare coverage for thousands of New Yorkers at no cost to the state. "