AFSCME Mobilizes Against Congressional Cuts to Medicaid and SNAP

AFSCME Members Rally Against Proposed Medicaid Cuts

As Congress deliberates on significant budget adjustments, AFSCME members are actively opposing initiatives that threaten to strip Medicaid coverage from millions. The proposed cutbacks are part of a broader fiscal strategy intended to facilitate tax reductions for the affluent.

Lawmakers with anti-union tendencies are advocating for reductions in federal assistance programs that serve economically disadvantaged groups, such as families with low income, children, seniors, veterans, and individuals with disabilities. A proposed legislation aims to cut approximately $715 billion from Medicaid over a decade by altering eligibility criteria, potentially preventing many from accessing necessary health care.

This policy shift is suggested to fund a $4.5 trillion tax break for billionaires, effectively removing health insurance from vulnerable populations. AFSCME President Lee Saunders criticized the plan, stating, “Congressional extremists are charging ahead with a plan to shower billionaires with massive tax breaks at the expense of our communities," emphasizing the added bureaucratic hurdles that would burden those reliant on Medicaid.

Medicaid isn't the only program under threat. The House Agriculture Committee has unveiled changes that could dismantle the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which aids low-income families with food provisions. Currently, one in eight Americans benefits from SNAP, including a significant number of children.

The proposal includes a $230 billion reduction in SNAP funding, shifting financial responsibilities to states, which may result in either benefit reductions or increased state taxes. The ripple effect of these changes would likely see more Americans experiencing food insecurity.

Other federally supported programs, such as Social Security, are also facing potential cuts, prompting AFSCME members to vocalize their opposition. They are actively campaigning to protect these essential services, as highlighted in their ongoing advocacy efforts here.

“AFSCME members are watching what happens this week, and we are mobilizing,” Saunders remarked, pointing to planned activities in Congress and nationwide events aimed at raising awareness about the detrimental impact of these proposed cuts. He reinforced the union's commitment to safeguarding public services from being compromised for financial gain.

Through initiatives such as the union’s Get Organized campaign, or AFSCME GO, members are steadfastly defending Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security from legislative threats. Their organized efforts underscore a broader commitment to protecting vital community resources against fiscal policies that prioritize wealth over welfare.

For more information or to join the movement, individuals are encouraged to Get Organized – it’s time to GO.