The bipartisan continuing resolution approved by the U.S. Senate on Friday includes $21.4 million in temporary disaster relief funding for the Commonwealth’s Medicaid program, a short‑term boost aimed at stabilizing health coverage in the wake of Super Typhoons Sinlaku and Bavi.
The measure, which funds the federal government through Dec. 11, 2026, directs a one‑time increase to the CNMI’s capped Medicaid allotment. According to the CNMI delegate’s office, the disaster relief funds will remain available until fully expended, providing flexibility as the Commonwealth continues long‑term recovery from back‑to‑back storms.
Del. Kimberlyn King‑Hinds said the additional Medicaid support reflects months of coordination between federal and Commonwealth agencies.
“I am grateful to the Commonwealth Medicaid Agency, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the House Energy and Commerce Committee, and the Senate Finance Committee for working with us to secure this critical infusion of resources for a program relied upon by so many of our residents,” King‑Hinds said.
She added that she intends to work with the administration and congressional colleagues to ensure the funding remains intact as Congress completes the continuing resolution and seeks to avert another federal government shutdown.
The bill now heads to the House for consideration.
