LA County turns to ‘workfare’ to help residents keep Medi-Cal and CalFresh benefits

Saying more than 1 million Los Angeles County residents could be at risk of losing Medi-Cal or CalFresh benefits under upcoming new federal work requirements for recipients, the Board of Supervisors voted Tuesday to expand so-called “workfare” and volunteer opportunities with the county and community organizations.

According to county Supervisor Hilda Solis, who sponsored the motion with Supervisor Lindsey Horvath, the federal budget bill signed in July — HR 1 — imposed expanded work requirements on many Medi-Cal and CalFresh recipients.

“With the passage of HR 1, our most vulnerable neighbors, including working families, veterans, former foster youth, people experiencing homelessness and individuals with serious underlying health conditions, are now at risk of losing access to the basic support systems they rely on,” Solis said in a statement after the board vote. “We cannot let that happen. This motion is about acting early and making sure Angelenos are not left behind. We are investing now in the infrastructure, partnerships and outreach necessary to ensure our communities are informed, connected and better able to keep their coverage.”

The motion instructs the county Department of Public Social Services and other agencies to begin preparing to assist residents in danger of losing access to the benefits. It also calls for the expansion of “workfare” and volunteer opportunities with county departments and with community organizations to help people meet the work and volunteer requirements.

According to Solis’ office, as many as 1.5 million Medi-Cal recipients in the county could potentially lose coverage when the new requirements take effect on Jan. 1, 2027. As many as 202,000 CalFresh recipients will be required to meet new work requirements beginning Feb. 1, 2026.

“We have a responsibility to reduce that harm — by expanding access to support, minimizing barriers, and making sure people understand what’s changing,” Horvath said in a statement. “This motion strengthens the county’s coordinated response to protect our most vulnerable residents and ensure they can maintain the care and resources they rely on.”