AFSCME Member Fights Budget Bill Threatening Food and Health Services

Wisconsin Worker Advocates Against Budget Bill Threatening Social Services

In the heart of Washington D.C., a determined voice from Wisconsin, Zabdiel Martinez, is echoing through the halls of Congress. As an AFSCME member and economic support specialist, Martinez is on a mission to oppose a controversial budget proposal that could drastically cut essential services.

Working in Dane County, Martinez assists residents with food assistance and Medicaid, and now he finds himself urging lawmakers to dismiss a bill that he believes would dismantle vital public services and food programs, like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), in favor of tax breaks for the wealthiest.

During his meetings on Capitol Hill, Martinez reflected on the families he serves—single mothers struggling with bills, households unable to afford meals, and elderly residents facing hunger. His advocacy took on new urgency when the House narrowly approved the bill, prompting him to focus his efforts on the Senate.

Martinez implores, “We need to talk to our senators and we need to let them know these cuts are not right, tell them not to cut services to these working families to give tax breaks to billionaires.” His plea highlights the potential impact of nearly $300 billion in cuts to SNAP and other programs, shifting the financial burden to states.

The consequences of the proposed budget are stark. According to AFSCME President Lee Saunders, it could lead to:

• Loss of food assistance for nearly 3.5 million individuals, including children
• Over 13 million people losing health coverage
• Potential closures of hospitals and clinics, resulting in staff layoffs
• Mass layoffs in sectors like healthcare and education
• Severe impacts on local economies
• Significant cuts to Medicare

“At every turn, working people will pay the price while anti-union extremists in Congress prioritize tax breaks for billionaires,” Saunders stated, emphasizing the ongoing struggle to influence the Senate's decision. More information on the local impacts of SNAP cuts can be found here.

Martinez's resolve remains unshaken as he continues his fight against these proposed cuts, urging citizens to join the movement and Get Organized. By rallying together, he believes communities can demand not just survival, but the right to thrive.