People with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and providers woke up to the news that the U.S. House passed “The One Big, Beautiful Bill” and it will now move on to the Senate. This bill will cut at least $790 Billion federal dollars from Medicaid and $290 billion in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP.) Given that two-thirds of SNAP participants also use Medicaid programs, this bill is doubly devastating for many people. “This news has us very worried. Lack of care, illness, and hunger is not beautiful,” says Cindy Bentley, Executive Director of People First Wisconsin, a statewide disability advocacy organization.
Stephenie Mlodzik, from People First Wisconsin, shares Cindy’s concerns as Medicaid services play a crucial role in her life, and the lives of others, saying, “Cuts to Medicaid could deeply impact the freedom and stability of those in the disability community, leading to catastrophic consequences. We must come together to advocate for Medicaid and protect the well-being of millions who depend on this essential support.”
A huge concern that Cindy Bentley has shared repeatedly is that cuts to Medicaid will increase the risk of people with disabilities becoming seriously ill if their care needs are not met in the community, resulting in more people being institutionalized like she was until 1984. “Institutional care is a required service under Medicaid rules, but home and community-based services are not. Institutions cost more and people do not want to live there. We call on our senators to lead with love and believe us about what we need. Voting against these terrible cuts…that would be beautiful.”
