News from LINC
Congressional leaders have proposed drastic Medicaid cuts—up to $2 trillion—to fund tax breaks for the wealthy and corporations. This puts Idaho families, seniors, and people with disabilities at risk.
Medicaid is the nation’s largest health insurance program, lowering costs, improving health, and supporting state economies. In Idaho, where 32% of the population is considered “working poor,” Medicaid upholds values of independence, family, and community.
If these cuts happen, millions—including tens of thousands of Idahoans—could lose access to essential care. Medicaid covers over 45,000 Idaho seniors and adults with disabilities. Nearly 25,000 children with disabilities rely on it, and 20,000 adults with disabilities use home- and community-based services (HCBS) to live independently. Medicaid allows seniors and people with disabilities to remain in their homes instead of institutions.
Without Medicaid, families will face impossible caregiving costs, forcing many to leave the workforce or struggle financially. Idaho families already provide over $2 billion in unpaid caregiving—cuts would only make things worse. Congress should support, not abandon, caregivers. Medicaid is also vital for rural Idaho, keeping hospitals and community health centers open. Without it, many of these facilities could shut down, leaving communities without essential healthcare services.
Medicaid cuts don’t just impact those who rely on it—they affect everyone. Over 70 million Americans depend on Medicaid. Gutting it would harm seniors, people with disabilities, children, low-income workers, and the healthcare providers who serve them. Idaho values self-sufficiency and community support. Medicaid embodies these principles by ensuring our loved ones—aging parents, children with disabilities, and hardworking families—get the care they need. We must tell Congress: Medicaid is not up for debate.
Jeremy Maxand is the Executive Director of the Living Independence Network Corporation, a Center for Independent Living that empowers Idahoans with disabilities to live the life of their choosing.