Millions of Americans rely on Medicaid as a critical lifeline for health care access. However, recent legislative efforts threaten to significantly weaken this essential program, putting at-risk populations including low-income families, children, seniors, and people with disabilities in jeopardy. We recognize that protecting Medicaid is not just a policy issue; it is a fundamental commitment to health equity, economic stability, and human dignity.
Why Medicaid Matters
For nearly 60 years, Medicaid has served as a pillar of the U.S. health care system, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care they need. The program:
- Supports Families and Children – Through the Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP) nearly half of all Medicaid enrollees are children. Medicaid ensures access to pediatric care, vaccinations, and early interventions.
- Provides Essential Care for Seniors and People with Disabilities – Medicaid funds nursing home care, in-home assistance, and critical support for millions of Americans who would otherwise be left without options.
- Reduces Health Disparities – By offering coverage to historically underserved populations, Medicaid plays a key role in advancing health equity and improving long-term health outcomes.
The Current Threat
On February 25, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a budget resolution proposing up to $2 trillion in federal spending cuts over the next decade. Medicaid, which provides health care coverage to over 73 million people, faces up to $880 billion in reductions. These cuts could result in millions losing access to preventive care, chronic disease management, and life-saving treatments.
The Senate is now considering this resolution through the budget reconciliation process, a legislative maneuver that allows for expedited passage of certain budgetary measures with a majority vote. Given the narrow political margins, this process could determine the fate of Medicaid funding in the coming months, making it crucial for advocates to engage with lawmakers and push for the program’s protection.
Potential Consequences of Funding Cuts
Drastic Medicaid cuts could have devastating effects on millions of Americans, leading to:
- Loss of Coverage – Reduced federal funding would force states to limit eligibility, leaving many without health care access.
- Increased Financial Burden on Families – Out-of-pocket medical costs could skyrocket, pushing more Americans into poverty.
- Strain on Health Care Systems – Hospitals and clinics, especially those serving low-income communities, may struggle to stay open or provide care to the uninsured.
Our Call to Action
We urge policymakers to protect and strengthen Medicaid rather than dismantle it. We call on legislators to:
- Reject Harmful Cuts – Prioritize funding for Medicaid to ensure continued access to health care for those who need it most.
- Engage with Affected Communities – Listen to the voices of patients, health care providers, and advocacy groups who understand the real-world impact of these policy decisions.
- Advance Health Equity – Strengthen and expand Medicaid as a tool for reducing disparities and ensuring all Americans can live healthy, dignified lives.
Health care is not a privilege, it is a fundamental human right. Medicaid is a critical tool in safeguarding that right and ensuring that no one is left behind. Now is the time to stand with the millions of Americans who depend on this program. We must fight to preserve and strengthen Medicaid, reinforcing our commitment to a just and equitable health care system for all.