Medicaid Cuts: Millions Face Losing Coverage Under Republican Plan

Millions of Americans could lose Medicaid coverage under Republican plans to slash federal spending. House Republicans say they've identified $880 billion in cuts, mostly to Medicaid, to help fund $4.5 trillion in tax breaks, a plan supported by President Donald Trump. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that these changes could lead to 10.3 million people losing some coverage, with 7.6 million becoming uninsured altogether. One of the biggest changes is the implementation of work requirements: Adults under 65 without dependents would need to complete 80 hours a month of work or community engagement to stay covered. Exceptions would apply for pregnancy or temporary hardship, but many could still fall through the cracks. There are also new co-pays. Families making over $32,000 a year—100% of the poverty line for a family of four—would have to pay $35 out of pocket for some services. States like New York and California, which allow undocumented immigrants to enroll, would face a ten-point cut in federal Medicaid funding. The bill also bans funding to Planned Parenthood and blocks federal Medicaid funds for gender-affirming care for minors, including puberty blockers and hormone therapy. The bill is still moving through Congress, but if passed, it could reshape access to health care for millions.