Several Republicans in the Minnesota Legislature are expressing concerns about potential cuts to Medicaid following the U.S. House passing a budget framework that includes significant reductions in federal spending. The GOP-backed plan proposes $1.5 trillion in cuts over the next decade, with the Energy and Commerce Committee tasked with finding $880 billion in savings, raising worries about the future of the essential health insurance program supporting low-income individuals and those with disabilities.
In response, 14 Minnesota state senators and representatives penned a letter to Republicans in the state’s Congressional Delegation, urging them to oppose any cuts to Medicaid due to the program’s critical role in serving 1.3 million Minnesotans. The federal government covers over half of the program’s costs, and the potential cuts could have severe implications for vulnerable populations.
GOP House Speaker Mike Johnson emphasized the need to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicaid to find savings, with a focus on improving the program rather than substantial cuts. Democrats, on the other hand, have voiced concerns about the impact of potential cuts on individuals with disabilities and children enrolled in the program.
Despite the ongoing debate, more details are needed about the proposed plan from Washington, and there are still several steps in the budget process before any final decisions are made. Meanwhile, some Republican Representatives from Minnesota have not responded to inquiries about the letter, while highlighting how health care is also a significant employer in rural areas that could be negatively affected by cuts.
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