More than 200,000 Medicaid members to begin receiving notices in September
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) and the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions will hold a virtual news conference on Monday, August 31 to explain new federal Medicaid changes taking effect in late 2026 and early 2027.
Beginning the week of Aug. 31, more than 200,000 New Mexico Medicaid members will receive notices about new work or activity rules that take effect Jan. 1, 2027. State officials will explain the changes, including who can qualify for Medicaid, who must meet the new work or activity rules, available exemptions, and what members need to do.
Officials will also provide an update on federal SNAP changes that took effect Jan. 1, 2026. They will also offer employment and training resources available to Medicaid and SNAP customers.
HCA will also launch Keep Your Benefits, NM, a statewide public education and outreach campaign to help eligible Medicaid and SNAP customers navigate these federal changes and keep their benefits.
When: 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, Aug. 31, 2026
Where: Zoom, link provided upon RSVP
Speakers
- Kari Armijo, Cabinet Secretary, New Mexico Health Care Authority
- Sarita Nair, Cabinet Secretary, New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions
- Alanna Dancis, Acting Medicaid Director, New Mexico Health Care Authority
- Niki Kozlowski, Income Support Division Director, New Mexico Health Care Authority
Credentialed members of the media may RSVP through the HCA Virtual Media Conference Registration Form
The news conference will stream live on the New Mexico Health Care Authority Facebook page. A Spanish-language stream will be available on HCA’s YouTube channel.
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About the New Mexico Health Care Authority
The New Mexico Health Care Authority connects New Mexicans to the care and support they need to live healthy, full lives. The agency administers Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), cash assistance, child support services, and behavioral health care across the state. HCA also oversees the State Health Benefits program for state employees and manages the Health Care Affordability Fund to help make coverage more affordable for working families. The agency licenses health care facilities, investigates complaints, and ensures providers deliver safe, high-quality care. In addition, HCA supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through a variety of home and community-based programs that protect health, safety, and human rights.