Issues

Proposed Cuts to Medicaid – Act Now!

Thanks to Medicaid, thousands of Idaho families are receiving the care they need during these unprecedented times, including care for chronic conditions, regular diagnostic and preventive screenings, mental health services, and coronavirus testing, treatment and vaccines. Not only is Idaho seeing savings in health coverage, but other parts of Idaho’s economy are benefitting from Medicaid expansion. A recent Idaho Press article highlighted these savings, as budget analyst Jared Hoskins said two divisions of the Idaho Department of Corrections have seen millions in savings thanks to Medicaid expansion.

“So in theory, if Medicaid expansion was to be repealed, those savings would no longer be realized and you would likely see a corresponding increase in the budget in those amounts,” said Hoskin.

Despite these savings, the raging public health crisis and economic downturn, Idaho lawmakers are looking at cuts to Medicaid during the ongoing 2021 Legislative Session. Thanks to federal Medicaid relief, Idaho can fully fund Medicaid during the pandemic and economic recovery without budget cuts.

Over the next few weeks the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee will be reviewing and setting the Medicaid budget. Now is the time to contact these committee members on the importance of Medicaid and keeping it whole. Join us in an urgent action asking legislators prioritize health coverage during the pandemic and to fully fund Medicaid.

To find your legislator and send an email, you can go to: https://www.closethegapidaho.org/take-action/take-email-action/.  You can also send an independent email, make a phone call, or send a written letter.