CNMI stands to get $21.4M in additional fund for Medicaid under federal bill

By Pacific Island Times News Staff

The Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2027, which is now headed to the president for signature, includes $21.4 million in additional federal Medicaid funding for the Northern Mariana Islands.

“This is a major step forward for healthcare in the CNMI. An additional $21.4 million in federal Medicaid funding will help strengthen access to care, support our healthcare providers and provide critical relief following the recent natural disasters," CNMI Del. Kimberlyn King-Hinds said.

 According to the delegate's office, the funding may also be used for eligible services provided during fiscal year 2026 even when the commonwealth makes payment for those services during fiscal year 2027.

“This funding addresses an immediate need, but the work does not end here. We must continue advocating for a fair and sustainable long-term Medicaid solution that ensures the CNMI receives the support our community deserves,” King-Hinds said.

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A continuing resolution is a stopgap measure that authorizes funding for federal agencies and programs pending completion of the annual appropriations process.

The legislation continues federal government funding through Dec. 11, 2026, averting a government shutdown while Congress completes work on fiscal year 2027 appropriations.

The continuing resolution keeps several federal programs for the CNMI, including federal highway and transit programs, territorial assistance programs administered by the Department of the Interior, FEMA disaster response and recovery activities, and several veterans health care, housing, transportation, and benefit programs.

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