In the news ... 2006 archive

PI ACTION ALERT:
House of Representatives Approves Medicaid Cuts

February 1, 2006

Today, the House of Representatives voted 216-214 to pass the budget reconciliation bill, which contains major cuts to Medicaid, including increased co-payments and premiums for Medicaid recipients. Thirteen Republicans joined all Democrats in voting no.

Last month, the Senate approved the bill, with Vice-President Cheney providing the tie-breaking vote. The bill now goes to President Bush who will sign it into law.

Advocating against these cuts to the nation's most vulnerable people has been a year long process. Thank you for being a part of the fight with your calls, letters, and visits to your elected representatives. The vote was extremely close in the House and the Senate, and your efforts made a huge difference.

While we are bitterly disappointed with this outcome, we recognize the importance of looking toward the 2006 election to deliver that message. Making health care a priority in our country will require electing people who will make that commitment.

Next week, President Bush will release his budget proposal for the next fiscal year. He is expected to call for more cuts to entitlement programs, such as Medicaid, Medicare, and food stamps. Stay tuned for more information with final details about the current budget bill and our upcoming battle.