Arkansas has begun the soft launch of a new community engagement and work requirement for ARHOME, the state’s Medicaid expansion program.
The requirement, announced by the Arkansas Department of Human Services, is currently in a learning phase with no penalties in place. Enrollees are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the upcoming changes before enforcement begins.
What’s Changing
Starting Jan. 1, 2027, healthy adults ages 19–64 enrolled in ARHOME who do not work, volunteer, attend school, or combine qualifying activities for at least 80 hours per month could lose their benefits — unless they qualify for an exemption.
Through the end of 2026, no one will lose coverage for failing to meet the new requirement. Standard Medicaid eligibility rules still apply during the soft launch period.
What Enrollees Should Do Now
DHS is urging ARHOME members to make sure their contact information is up to date so they can receive important program updates by mail, email, or text.
For more information on the community engagement requirement, exemptions, and how to report qualifying activities, visit ar.gov/engage.
