Introduction
Mississippi has one of the highest rates of uninsured individuals in the United States. Leaders across the state continue to debate whether Mississippi should expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act. Supporters argue expansion would increase healthcare access and bring federal funding into the state. Opponents argue it would increase long-term costs and expand government dependency.
Task
Your task is to work in a policy team to determine whether Mississippi should expand Medicaid. After reviewing assigned resources, your group will create a policy brief (2–3 pages) and a 5-minute presentation summarizing your recommendation. Your final recommendation must clearly state whether Mississippi should expand Medicaid, remain as it is, or pursue a different approach. You must include at least five pieces of evidence from the provided sources. Your presentation should address costs, benefits, and long-term effects on Mississippi citizens.
Process
Begin by reviewing the history of Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act.
1. Data Collection
Each member gathers evidence from at least 3 sources. I would suggest each member looking at different sources to ensure each source is utilized.
2.Group Meeting
Meet as a team and compare findings. Identify agreements and conflicts in data.
3.Policy Recommendation
Draft a clear, supported position.
4.Create Final Products
Each group will create a 2–3 page policy brief and a 5-minute presentation that will be presented to the class.
Sources
https://files.kff.org/attachment/fact-sheet-medicaid-state-MS
https://www.kff.org/affordable-care-act/a-closer-look-at-medicaid-expan…
www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2025/06/24/what-the-data-says-about-med…
https://www.brookings.edu/articles/uninsurance-rates-have-fallen-signif…
https://www.mississippifreepress.org/medicaid-expansion-dead-in-mississ…
https://medicaid.ms.gov/https://catalog.nlm.nih.gov/discovery/fulldispl…
https://mshealthpolicy.com/2025/04/03/mississippi-medicaid-and-potentia…
https://hsph.harvard.edu/news/exploring-costs-benefits-of-medicaid-expa…
https://www.cbpp.org/sites/default/files/4-3-24health-factsheet-ms.pdf
https://mississippitoday.org/2025/07/03/medicaid-cuts-mississippi-lousi…
Evaluation
Groups will be evaluated on research quality, use of evidence, collaboration, clarity of argument, and professionalism of presentation. Policy briefs must include at least five properly cited sources. Presentations must clearly explain both sides of the issue before defending a final recommendation. Groups will be graded on depth of analysis rather than the position they choose. Individual participation will be assessed through peer evaluations. Clear organization and proper grammar are required. Creativity and critical thinking will enhance scores.
Conclusion
Public policy decisions are complex and require careful analysis of economic, social, and political factors. Through this WebQuest, you have examined a real issue facing Mississippi lawmakers today. You have practiced analyzing multiple perspectives, interpreting data, and forming evidence-based conclusions. These are essential skills for informed citizenship. Whether you supported or opposed Medicaid expansion, you have experienced the process policymakers use when making impactful decisions. Understanding state-level government prepares you to participate meaningfully in Mississippi’s future.