The surge in illegal immigration cost the state $73 million in health care coverage in 2023.
According to state data, more than 11,000 people who illegally crossed the Southern border received health insurance through the state system known as OmniSalud.
About 12,485 people enrolled in Colorado Connect, the state’s insurance marketplace’s public benefit corporation and online platform. Of those 12,485 individuals, 11,000 enrolled in OmniSalud, the state’s insurance program for illegal immigration.
In 2024, state officials expect the health care program for illegal immigration to cost another $73 million, bringing the two-year total to $146 million, which equals about $6,600 per immigrant.
The state reported on Thursday that the number of Coloradans enrolled in the state’s individual market insurance plan has increased by 188% since 2023, over a third of all selections made during the open enrollment period. According to the office of Gov. Jared Polis and the Colorado Department of Regulatory Affairs, 80,655 people enrolled in Colorado Option. This plan, enacted through legislation in 2021, provides a standard set of benefits to be provided by all insurance companies.
“We are thrilled that Colorado’s nation-leading Colorado Option is helping thousands of Coloradans save money on health insurance,” said Polis. “Reducing health care costs has been a top priority since day one, and we continue working to save people money on health care.”
Colorado Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway said the increased enrollment in the Colorado Option means more state residents are choosing the plan to save money and get better health care coverage.
“The reality is Coloradans chose the Colorado Option in record numbers for 2024, even while special interests continue to try to mislead Coloradans about the Colorado Option,” Conway said. “In addition, the Colorado Option provides zero-dollar coverage for primary care and behavioral health visits. So, it should come as no surprise that Coloradans are choosing to save money on health care by enrolling in the Colorado Option.”
