This month, Congress passed what they’re proudly calling the “Big Beautiful Bill.” But behind the catchy name lies a painful truth: this bill cuts crucial Medicaid funding, adds strict new requirements, and puts millions of vulnerable Americans at risk of losing their healthcare.
Let’s break down what this bill actually does and who it really helps. Spoiler alert, it’s not working families.
What’s In the “Big Beautiful Bill”?
Here’s a simple breakdown of what the bill includes when it comes to Medicaid:
- Work Requirements: Adults ages 19 to 55 must now prove they’re working at least 20 hours a week to stay on Medicaid with minimal exemptions. This includes people living in areas with few job opportunities or those juggling caregiving duties.
- Coverage Cuts: Federal funding for Medicaid expansion, which helped low-income adults get coverage, is being reduced. States can now opt out of expanded coverage without penalties.
- Paperwork Overload: Recipients will need to regularly submit income updates, work logs, and more. Miss a form or deadline, and you could lose coverage even if you still qualify.
Meanwhile, the bill expands tax breaks for corporations and the ultra-wealthy. Because of course it does.
Who’s on Medicaid, Really?
Let’s bust a myth. Medicaid isn’t just for people who aren’t working. Here’s who actually depends on it:
- Children: Nearly one in three kids in the U.S. are covered by Medicaid or CHIP.
- Seniors: Many older adults rely on it for long-term care.
- People with Disabilities: Medicaid is often the only option for necessary services and home care.
- Working Families: Millions of low-wage workers use Medicaid because their jobs don’t offer insurance.
This bill hurts real people who are already doing everything they can just to survive. And now they’re being asked to jump through more hoops or risk losing care altogether.
What Would Jesus Do?
Let’s be real. If Jesus walked into Congress today, he’d be flipping tables, not signing this bill. He didn’t ask the poor for proof of employment before offering food, healing, or compassion. He fed the poor. He didn’t hand tax breaks to the rich.
That’s why we designed a shirt to say what so many of us are thinking right now:
“Jesus Fed the Poor, Congress Fed the Rich” T-shirt
It’s a bold reminder that policy is moral, and who we protect says everything about our values.
Want to Learn More?
We always encourage folks to dig deeper. For a more detailed look at how this bill will affect Medicaid, check out this overview from the nonpartisan Kaiser Family Foundation.
What You Can Do
Call your representatives, especially if they voted for this bill, and tell them healthcare should be a right, not a privilege.
Wear your values. Our movement is built on visibility, and your shirt can be a powerful way to spark conversation.
When we stand up for each other, we push back against cruelty disguised as policy. We deserve leaders who care for people, not just profits.
