Extends Medicare Drug Help to Territories
Medicare Low Income Subsidy Equality Act of 2026
Would extend Medicare drug premium and cost-sharing help to low-income residents of Puerto Rico and other territories starting January 1, 2027. It would also raise Medicaid payments to those territories under a new formula.
Supporters say
Groups representing Puerto Rico and territory residents would likely say the bill ends unequal treatment. They would argue low-income seniors deserve the same drug help as mainland residents.
Critics say
Some budget groups would likely say the bill adds federal spending on territories. They may argue the new Medicaid formula costs more over time.
Why it matters
Low-income Medicare drug users in Puerto Rico and other territories could get help paying premiums and copays. Territory governments would receive more Medicaid money under a new formula starting in 2027.
What it does
- Changes the poverty line used for Medicare drug help so territory residents use the 48 contiguous states' line
- Ends the current rule that limits drug premium and cost-sharing help for territory residents
- Increases Medicaid payments to Puerto Rico and other territories, starting in 2027, using a new formula
- Takes effect January 1, 2027 for Medicare changes; Medicaid changes take effect when the bill is signed
Status
Latest action (2026-10-22): Referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.