The House originally passed its reconciliation package that included over 800 billion dollars cut to Medicaid over the next ten years, threatening the health and well-being of millions of Americans, including children, seniors, and individuals with Autism and other disabilities. This bill then went to the Senate, where it passed at a vote of 50-50 with Vice President Vance breaking the tie, with some additional, more harmful provisions related to provider taxes and state-directed payments.
The bill will now go to the House to be voted on again due to the changes from the Senate. Many House Republicans have expressed concerns with the increased harm the Senate bill will result in under Medicaid. Now is the time to reach out to your Representatives to urge them to vote no on the bill as it is currently written!
In the Senate version of the bill, the Congressional Budget Office estimate shows that the provisions will cut at least 1 trillion dollars from Medicaid and result in at least 10.5 million people losing Medicaid (17 million Americans in total losing insurance from Medicaid, Marketplace, etc).
It also adds work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents. An individual must work at least 80 hours a month or complete at least 80 hours of community service, participate in a work program for at least 80 hours, enroll in an educational program for at least 80 hours, or a combination of these activities for at least 80 hours. There will be exceptions for this as defined by the Secretary of HHS.
With a reduction in federal support and provider tax restrictions, states may struggle to fund optional services like Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.
Your Voice is Needed.
Contact your Representatives today! Urge them to stand against Medicaid cuts and changes such as work requirements, and prioritize funding that protects individuals with Autism, disabilities, and low-income families. Share your personal story to make an impact.
Click here to find your Representative.
For tips on sharing your story and a sample script to address Medicaid cuts, visit our Advocacy Page.