Texas leads U.S. in children without health insurance, Georgetown University study shows

June 2, 2026 - 20:07

A new report from Georgetown University reveals that Texas now has the highest rate of uninsured children in the United States. The study shows that nearly 11 percent of Texas children under the age of 6 had no health insurance in 2024. That number marks a sharp rise from 7.9 percent just two years earlier. Researchers say the increase means more than 73,000 additional young children across the state are now without coverage.

The report points to a troubling trend. While many states have made progress in covering children through public programs, Texas has moved in the opposite direction. Experts say the jump in uninsured rates is especially concerning for very young children, who need regular checkups, vaccinations, and early treatment for illnesses. Without insurance, families often delay care or skip it entirely.

Advocates for children's health say the numbers reflect gaps in the state's Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program enrollment. Texas has one of the highest uninsured rates in the country overall, and children are not spared. The study's authors call for policy changes to simplify enrollment and reduce barriers that keep families from getting coverage. They warn that without action, more children will fall through the cracks.