Summary

Florida, under Governor Ron DeSantis, is delaying a planned expansion of the KidCare health insurance program, which would provide coverage for 42,000 additional low-income children.

The Biden administration approved the expansion with conditions, including a federal rule requiring continuous coverage even if families miss premium payments.

Florida unsuccessfully challenged the rule in court and now seeks a delay, hoping the incoming Trump administration will modify the requirements.

Critics warn that the delay harms vulnerable families, especially as 532,000 children recently lost Medicaid coverage during the post-pandemic unwinding process.