On a federal level, Congress has begun a budget “reconciliation” process to allow Congress to cut Medicaid with a simple Senate majority. Congressional committees are considering policy changes to cut Medicaid spending that could fundamentally alter the program.

Why does all this matter in Washington? Many people know that Medicaid started alongside Medicare in 1965 to help elders, people with disabilities, and low-income families receiving public assistance afford care. But over time, Medicaid has evolved into a bedrock of our health care system. Today: 

1 in 4 Washingtonians rely on Medicaid and related programs for their care;
1 in 3 babies born in Washington are covered by Medicaid; 
Medicaid funding makes up a quarter of Washington’s total budget; and 
Rural Washingtonians and Washingtonians of color are more likely to be covered by Medicaid. 
Given this impact, NoHLA is part of a nationwide push to tell Congress “Hands Off Medicaid!” You can take action here or call the Congressional hotline at 866-426-2631 and tell them to STOP CUTS TO MEDICAID.