Supporters of sweeping tax and spending legislation sent to President Donald Trump say changes to Medicaid, food aid, and other programs will encourage personal responsibility and stop system abuse.
In Texas, Medicaid covers a third of all children, half of all pregnant women, the elderly in long-term care, and the disabled. Critics say new requirements in the bill will disrupt lives, while supporters argue it will prevent people from scamming the system.
The bill introduces work requirements for many adults ages 19 through 64 to enroll and remain on Medicaid. Beneficiaries would need to work, attend school, or perform at least 80 hours of community service a month. This change will heavily impact the 40 states that expanded Medicaid. Since Texas did not expand Medicaid in 2014, it is in a unique position.
Ann Barnes, president and CEO of the Episcopal Health Foundation, said there’s a possibility Texas may not be as hard hit as other states but is already behind in insurance coverage.
Source: Texas braces for impact of Medicaid funding cuts and new rules / Click2Houston