AFSCME President condemns reconciliation bill's Medicaid cuts and tax breaks

In a strong response to recent legislative developments, AFSCME President Lee Saunders has issued a statement critiquing newly unveiled proposals by some House committees. The proposals have ignited concerns over potential impacts on crucial public services.

Concerns Over Tax Breaks and Medicaid Cuts

According to Saunders, the current language in the reconciliation bill suggests that certain Congressional factions are advancing a plan that prioritizes significant tax cuts for billionaires. The concern is that these moves are being made at the detriment of vital community resources, with Medicaid facing substantial reductions.

Saunders emphasized, “This language makes it crystal clear: Congressional extremists are charging ahead with a plan to shower billionaires with massive tax breaks at the expense of our communities.” He warns that the proposed cuts could strip health coverage from over 13 million people, particularly targeting low-income workers, seniors, and those with disabilities. Instead of streamlining Medicaid, Saunders notes that the new provisions would introduce burdensome bureaucratic hurdles, complicating access for the most vulnerable.

Anticipated Cuts to Assistance Programs

The apprehension doesn't stop at Medicaid. Saunders highlighted that the proposed legislation also targets food assistance programs for cuts. This has prompted AFSCME members to prepare for action. “AFSCME members are watching what happens this week, and we are mobilizing,” Saunders stated, reflecting the union's commitment to counter these changes.

With plans to engage both in Congress and communities nationwide, AFSCME is gearing up to raise awareness about the potential negative consequences of these legislative actions. The union's stance is clear: they are committed to defending public services against what they perceive as financially motivated policy decisions that favor the wealthy.