“It is up to our Oklahoma federal delegation to advocate for the best possible solutions for Oklahomans, and supporting the federal budget bill does not do that,” said House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson, D-Oklahoma City. “When they took office, they swore to protect Oklahomans. Instead, they are cutting our health care and actively going against the needs of Oklahomans.”
The Oklahoma Hospital Association reported that the proposed federal cuts to Medicaid could eliminate nearly 15,000 jobs and reduce federal reimbursements to Oklahoma hospitals by $8.7B.
“We are watching this federal vote closely, as it could have a potentially catastrophic impact on the Oklahoma economy,” said House Democratic Caucus Assistant Leader Rep. Melissa Provenzano, D-Tulsa. “This bill could result in thousands of lost jobs and lost health care services across all Oklahoma communities, big and small. All to give a tax cut to the wealthiest earners. We must not allow this to stand.”
Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City, emphasized the importance of Medicaid, especially for people with disabilities.
“Medicaid covers only the most essential medical care for people with disabilities and older adults, services that are critical for their health and survival,” said Hefner. “But when funding is reduced, states like Oklahoma are forced to cut optional supports, such as in-home care, community-based services, and family caregiving assistance that actually makes it possible for these individuals to live safely, independently, and with dignity outside of institutions or nursing facilities.”
Rep. Meloyde Blancett, D-Tulsa, implored the federal delegation to consider the harm these cuts could bring to Oklahomans.
“While I understand the need for fiscal responsibility, I also know we can’t just take a chainsaw and start indiscriminate whacking which is what this appears to be,” Blancett said. “I would like to put out a strong request specifically to our federal delegation–please consider the harm this will do to our healthcare infrastructure long term and the short term damage it will do to citizens. I implore you to push for a more gradual, strategic plan that does not cut average Oklahomans off at the knees.”
Rep. Andy Fugate, D-Del City, also said the federal delegation should be advocating for the wellbeing of Oklahomans.
“The latest census data shows Oklahoma is now the sixth poorest state in the nation,” Fugate said. “Medicaid (also known as SoonerCare) and supplemental insurance payments for Oklahomans living in poverty not only keep Oklahomans alive, they keep our hospitals open. In order to truly Make Oklahoma Healthy Again, the Governor should join us in demanding Oklahoma’s federal delegation reject the budget bill and replace it with legislation that supports the health and wellbeing of Oklahoma families.”
Rep. Ellen Pogemiller, D-Oklahoma City, said cuts to Medicaid would impact the entire state.
“25% of Oklahomans rely on Medicaid for their health insurance,” Pogemiller said. “The potential loss of $8.7B in Medicaid funding would be devastating–not just for individuals and families, but for the entire healthcare system across our state. Oklahomans have made it clear: they want greater access to care and lower healthcare costs. This budget bill delivers neither.”
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