AFSCME President condemns House budget cuts to Medicaid and public services

In a move that has sparked significant controversy, the House recently passed a federal budget proposal which entails substantial reductions in Medicaid, food assistance, and other public services. The decision has prompted a strong reaction from AFSCME President Lee Saunders, highlighting potential consequences for millions of Americans.

“The House-passed budget promises to raise prices on working families and retirees, rip lifesaving health care and food support from millions, and threaten public services nationwide – all so billionaires like Elon Musk can buy more yachts,” Saunders stated.

This budget plan could affect nearly 3.5 million individuals by eliminating access to food assistance and could result in the loss of health coverage for over 13 million people, including working individuals and caregivers. Such changes may lead to staffing reductions or closures in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics, affecting those who rely on these vital services.

The repercussions could also extend into the education sector, where public schools might struggle to support students whose families are impacted by these cuts. Economic instability is another potential outcome as layoffs in healthcare, education, and other crucial sectors might weaken local economies and increase unemployment rates.

“The economic fallout from their greed will be widespread. Layoffs across health care, education and other front-line sectors will weaken local economies and drive up unemployment,” Saunders warned.

Further complicating the situation, new requirements introduced to Medicaid and reduced funding for food assistance could leave many without the support needed to recover after job losses. This shift, according to Saunders, directs resources away from communities and into the hands of the already wealthy.

“This budget doesn’t just take away vital services — it drains money from Main Street and funnels it straight to Wall Street,” Saunders added.

Despite the House's decision, the proposal has not yet become law. Saunders emphasized that efforts will continue to influence Senate members to reconsider the budget’s implications, advocating for the protection of public health and livelihoods over financial gains for billionaires.

“Billionaire donors may have the money, but we have people power — and we’re not afraid to use it,” Saunders affirmed.