$880 billion Medicaid Cuts: Implications for Minnesota’s Public Health
The fight over Medicaid is intensifying as Congress approved $880 billion in cuts over the next decade, with far-reaching consequences for Minnesota’s public health landscape. While the details have to be worked out, advocacy becomes a key tool to shape the ultimate outcomes. Medicaid provides essential coverage to one in five Americans, including children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. However, proposed reforms—such as block grants, work requirements, and funding reductions—could dramatically impact access to healthcare, state budgets, and health equity.
Why This Matters to Minnesota
Minnesota has been a leader in Medicaid innovation, using its expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) to increase access and improve health outcomes. However, the proposed cuts could:
- Threaten coverage for nearly 1.5 million Minnesotans, particularly low-income adults and children.
- Strain rural hospitals, as Medicaid supports over 50% of births and 62% of nursing home residents and 42% of long term care.
- Increase financial pressure on the state, which may need to compensate for federal funding losses or limit enrollment and services.
Polling indicates that 77% of Americans support Medicaid, with even conservative-leaning voters expressing concerns about cuts. As the debate unfolds, public health professionals in Minnesota must be prepared to advocate for sustainable funding, defend access to care, and support affected populations.
The MPHA Policy & Advocacy Committee is committed to being a strong voice in ensuring Medicaid remains a vital safety net. As legislative battles continue, we will inform and urge you with tools and tactics to engage in advocacy, educate policymakers, and support community health efforts.
Stay informed. Stay engaged. The future of public health depends on it.
Contact us at: policy@mpha.net.