Senator Mullin Defends Medicaid Work Requirements Amid Bill’s Potential 17 Million Coverage Losses

The Republican budget bill supported by President Donald Trump includes significant cuts to Medicaid, with $700 billion in reductions and new work requirements for able-bodied adults without dependents or medical conditions. Proponents like Senator Markwayne Mullin argue these requirements, including a 20-hour weekly work, volunteer, or schooling mandate and more frequent income verifications, aim to eliminate fraud and waste and preserve Medicaid for those truly in need. Mullin dismisses opposition to the bill as laziness, emphasizing that Medicaid was designed to help people during hard times but has been abused. Critics warn the bill will cause catastrophic harm, potentially causing millions to lose coverage, especially disabled and aging individuals, while imposing costly administrative burdens that do not increase employment. The Congressional Budget Office estimates millions would lose access if the bill passes, sparking nationwide outrage and protests. The Senate is currently debating the bill in a vote-a-rama, with President Trump aiming to sign it into law by July 4.