Nebraska has become the first state in the nation to implement new Medicaid work requirements, moving ahead of a federal deadline by eight months under a law passed last year. The requirements, set up for the Medicaid expansion population of roughly 72,000 people, require recipients to meet work requirements or maintain coverage unless they otherwise qualify for a medical exemption. Critics argue the move could impact health care coverage for tens of thousands of people who rely heavily on Medicaid. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) anticipates about 25,000 additional recipients as part of their Renewal Process. The new requirements will help citizens of Nebraska achieve greater self-identification, independence, and financial independence. Critics say the move will harm thousands of Nebraskans who rely on Medicaid, who are often referred to as "the guinea pig for the nation".