The gist

Requires every state Medicaid program to cover lung cancer biomarker testing starting in 2027, giving low-income patients access to precision cancer treatment.

Who wins, who loses

• Wins: Medicaid patients with lung cancer, oncologists, biomarker test makers like Guardant and Foundation Medicine.
• Loses: state Medicaid budgets absorbing new testing costs; federal taxpayers funding the expanded benefit.

What it does

• Amends Title XIX of the Social Security Act to add biomarker testing as a mandatory Medicaid benefit.
• Sets January 1, 2027 as the start date for required coverage nationwide.
• Extends the mandate to Medicaid Alternative Benefit Plans under section 1937.
• Covers tests that detect tumor mutations guiding targeted drug choices.

Why should I care?

Lung cancer kills more Americans than any other cancer. Supporters say biomarker testing matches patients to drugs that work, and Medicaid patients currently get tested far less than privately insured ones. Critics argue federal mandates strain state budgets and Washington shouldn't dictate specific medical benefits. Where do you land? Vote below and use "Tell Your Rep" to make sure your voice reaches Congress.