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New House Budget Bill Threatens Medicaid for Millions

6/2/2025

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House Budget Threatens Medicaid

The new House budget bill could jeopardize Medicaid for countless individuals by requiring enrollees to prove 80 hours of work each month. Experts caution that these complicated reporting rules may echo past failures in Arkansas and New Hampshire, potentially leaving millions without essential healthcare, all in the name of cutting federal spending.

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Ernst Defends Medicaid Reforms

Iowa GOP Senator Joni Ernst sparked controversy during a town hall when she made a remark about death while discussing Medicaid reforms in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. This proposed legislation, which includes work requirements, could impact 7.6 million beneficiaries. Ernst stood by the reforms, asserting they are designed to safeguard vulnerable communities while tackling government spending.

History

Historical Context

The proposed Medicaid work requirements echo past state-level initiatives, notably in Arkansas and New Hampshire, which faced criticism for limiting access to healthcare. Following the 2012 Supreme Court ruling that made Medicaid expansion optional, many states opted out, creating coverage gaps for low-income individuals. This trend raises concerns about the potential health impacts on millions of vulnerable Americans reliant on Medicaid.

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House Budget Threatens Medicaid

The new House budget bill could jeopardize Medicaid for countless individuals by requiring enrollees to prove 80 hours of work each month. Experts caution that these complicated reporting rules may echo past failures in Arkansas and New Hampshire, potentially leaving millions without essential healthcare, all in the name of cutting federal spending.

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