Maryland Senate Votes to Allow Undocumented Immigrants Health Insurance Access

Maryland could follow Washington state in opening its health exchange to undocumented residents, pending federal approval.

The Maryland Senate voted to open the state-run health exchange to undocumented immigrants, aiming to provide a new pathway to care for roughly 275,000 residents.
Maryland could become the second state to apply for a federal waiver to open its health exchange to undocumented residents, following Washington state.
The bill, which has now passed both the Maryland Senate and House, is poised to head to the governor's desk for approval.
If a federal waiver is approved, undocumented immigrants in Maryland could buy health insurance on the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange as early as 2026.
Supporters argue the measure will reduce uncompensated hospital care costs and improve emergency room wait times, while opponents raise concerns about border security and potential increases in doctor wait times.