SHARS Funding at Risk

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SHARS Funding at Risk

What Texas School Districts Need to Know About H.R. 1


The U.S. House of Representatives is currently advancing H.R. 1 – “The One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” a sweeping proposal with major implications for public services — including school-based Medicaid programs like SHARS (School Health and Related Services).

While SHARS isn’t explicitly named in the bill, several provisions could significantly affect how school districts access Medicaid reimbursements for services already delivered to students with disabilities.


What’s in the Bill?

H.R. 1 includes proposals that would:

  • Tighten Medicaid eligibility rules, requiring more frequent income and residency verifications
  • Limit or eliminate retroactive Medicaid coverage — a key mechanism for claiming SHARS for mid-year student enrollments
  • Impose new documentation and screening requirements, increasing administrative burdens for state Medicaid agencies and school districts
  • Shift a greater share of Medicaid costs to states — potentially reducing Texas’ financial support for school-based health services

Why This Matters to Texas Districts

Texas school districts have already experienced over $600 million in SHARS reimbursement losses due to state-imposed Medicaid rule changes that exceeded federal requirements.

If passed, H.R. 1 could further:

  • Decrease the number of students eligible for SHARS
  • Increase administrative strain on business offices and special education departments
  • Reduce funding available to support health services in schools

What School Leaders Can Do

Now is the time for superintendents, CFOs, special education directors, and Medicaid coordinators to make their voices heard.

Contact your U.S. Representatives and Senators
Let them know that school-based Medicaid services matter — and that SHARS funding must be protected.

Find your members of Congress HERE

Suggested message:

“As a public school leader, I urge you to protect Medicaid funding for school-based services. H.R. 1 may reduce our ability to support students with disabilities through SHARS. Please oppose any provision that restricts Medicaid enrollment or limits reimbursement for services already delivered and documented.”


Onward Is Here to Help

At Onward, we are committed to advocating for Texas school districts and protecting the integrity of the SHARS program. If your district needs help understanding the potential impacts of H.R. 1 or drafting outreach to lawmakers, our team is ready to support you.

Contact us at info@onwardlearning.com