House Passes Bill Potentially Cutting Medicaid Coverage for 7 Million

The House of Representatives passed a sweeping economic package known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill," aligning with President Donald Trump's agenda, which includes significant tax cuts and major changes to Medicaid. Central to the bill are new work requirements for Medicaid recipients, requiring able-bodied, childless adults to work or participate in community activities for at least 80 hours per month, potentially stripping Medicaid benefits from over 7 million people nationwide. The legislation also bans gender-affirming care under Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, initially targeting minors but later expanding to all ages, drawing criticism from Democrats and transgender advocates. While Medicare and Social Security are not directly cut, experts warn the bill’s $4 trillion cost over ten years will pressure future spending cuts on these entitlement programs. States like Colorado could see significant Medicaid coverage losses due to stricter eligibility checks and work requirements, with estimates suggesting that nearly one-third of Medicaid expansion enrollees there might lose coverage. The bill also includes other healthcare provisions such as prohibiting new or increased provider taxes to fund Medicaid and increasing spending on immigration enforcement and military, with the Senate now expected to review the legislation.