Millions Could Lose Benefits Under GOP Plan Targeting Medicaid and Food Assistance

WASHINGTON D.C. — House Republicans have introduced a sweeping budget reconciliation bill, dubbed the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," proposing significant reductions to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that these measures could lead to over $1 trillion in combined cuts over the next decade, potentially affecting millions of low-income Americans.

The bill outlines $715 billion in Medicaid cuts, which the CBO projects could result in at least 8.6 million individuals losing health coverage. Provisions include mandatory work requirements for childless adults aged 19 to 64, increased cost-sharing for beneficiaries, and stricter eligibility verification processes. Additionally, the bill proposes shifting a portion of Medicaid costs to states, a move that could strain state budgets and lead to further reductions in coverage.

In terms of SNAP, the legislation seeks to reduce spending by approximately $300 billion. Key changes involve raising the work requirement age for able-bodied adults without dependents from 54 to 64 and redefining a dependent child as under the age of 7, down from under 18. This redefinition would subject more parents to work requirements to maintain eligibility. The bill also proposes that states begin contributing between 5% to 25% of SNAP costs starting in 2028, potentially leading to decreased enrollment due to budget constraints.

While the bill has garnered support among some Republican lawmakers, it faces internal opposition. Hardline conservatives are pushing for more immediate implementation of Medicaid work requirements and additional spending cuts, whereas moderates express concern over the potential impact on constituents. Representative Gabe Evans (R-CO) defended the bill, stating it aims to reduce "waste, fraud, and abuse," though critics argue the cuts would disproportionately affect vulnerable populations.

The legislation is currently under review by the House Budget Committee, with further amendments anticipated. Given the narrow Republican majority and internal divisions, the bill's passage remains uncertain. Should it advance to the Senate, significant revisions are expected to address concerns from both parties.