Alaska Medicaid Funding Cuts are sparking concerns among lawmakers and residents. A budget resolution passed by the U.S. House of Representatives aims to reduce federal spending by $2 trillion over a decade.
Rep. Zack Fields, D-Anchorage, called the vote “insane.” Senate Majority Leader Cathy Giessel, R-Anchorage, warned that the only way to achieve such drastic cuts would be to slash Medicaid funding. This particularly concerns Alaska, where one-third of residents rely on Medicaid for healthcare.
Medicaid plays a vital role in Alaska’s healthcare system. It funds hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies, and supports 12% of the state’s jobs. Rep. Genevieve Mina, D-Anchorage, highlighted the importance of Medicaid for seniors, people with disabilities, and rural communities.
Moreover, the proposed cuts could create a $115 million hole in Alaska’s state budget. It could lead to potentially 60,000 residents losing healthcare coverage. Lawmakers are urging the Senate to consider the severe consequences of these cuts.
Additionally, Rep. Andy Josephson, D-Anchorage, warned that the state could lose $1.15 billion in federal funding. It would exacerbate the already dire situation. Lawmakers are calling on the Senate to protect Alaska’s Medicaid funding.
Alaska Medicaid Funding Cuts would have far-reaching and devastating consequences for the state’s residents. Legislators must find alternative solutions to mitigate the impact of these cuts.
News story originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
