House Passes Historic Medicaid, SNAP Cuts Bill

The U.S. House has passed the 'One Big Beautiful Bill Act,' which proposes historic cuts of $698 billion to Medicaid and $267 billion to SNAP over ten years, while making permanent certain tax cuts, including an enhanced deduction for seniors over 65. If enacted, these cuts could strip millions of Americans—including hundreds of thousands in Illinois, Nebraska, Ohio, and Vermont—of health coverage, with studies warning of increased mortality and late-stage disease diagnoses. The legislation introduces stricter eligibility and work requirements, disproportionately impacting low-income families, children, minorities, and people with disabilities. Critics, including some Republican lawmakers, warn of severe economic fallout, hospital closures, and a possible increase in the federal deficit by trillions, while proponents claim it promotes workforce participation and fiscal responsibility. Local lawmakers and advocacy groups are rallying against the cuts, citing the lifesaving benefits and cost reductions from Medicaid expansion and raising concerns about equity in other state programs. States are preparing for the bill’s possible passage, which could further restrict access to basic needs for vulnerable populations.