RFK Jr. Says Medicaid Spending Is Rising — Critics Say That Masks Deep Cuts
Summary
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. told Senators that Medicaid spending will rise over the next decade and denied it was being cut. However, Democrats and health experts say that despite overall spending increases, there are nearly $1 trillion in reductions compared to previous projections, which could lead to coverage losses for low-income Americans.Key Facts
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. said Medicaid spending will increase over the next 10 years.
- Critics say that total spending growth mainly reflects inflation and population changes, not more benefits.
- The Congressional Budget Office estimates about $1 trillion less federal Medicaid spending in the next decade versus prior forecasts.
- Changes include work requirements and new rules that could reduce coverage for low-income adults.
- Past Medicaid work requirement programs caused many people to lose coverage due to administrative problems.
- The Kaiser Family Foundation and RAND Corporation warn these cuts may hurt hospitals and care providers.
- Kennedy argues the reforms are needed to reduce federal deficits and improve the program.
- Opponents say these cuts will harm families and states that rely on Medicaid services.
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