On Sunday, New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham (D) criticized Republican initiatives aimed at reducing Medicaid funding, asserting that such cuts would “destroy medical care as we know it.”
In an interview on CBS News’ “Face the Nation,” she expressed concerns that these efforts would dismantle healthcare access for everyday Americans, ultimately driving costs higher for everyone.
The governor cautioned that potential cuts could have severe national repercussions.
“It’s going to lead to hospital closures. I believe there are around 432 hospitals in the nation on the brink, with nearly a third of their funding coming from Medicaid. This means fewer healthcare providers and reduced access,” she explained.
“No states can handle this type of cost shift. Furthermore, companies struggle to hire because their employees lack healthcare access. That’s a significant economic impact that isn’t being discussed,” she added.
Lujan Grisham noted that “all states,” including New Mexico, will strive to protect their residents and mentioned that they are preparing for possible cuts in federal support.
These comments come amid growing uncertainty regarding budget negotiations, particularly those related to Medicaid.
The House Energy and Commerce Committee, responsible for Medicaid, is set to review and vote on parts of a package on Tuesday, but disagreements remain regarding potential modifications to Medicaid. The budget resolution has instructed this committee to make at least $880 billion in spending reductions.
Reports indicate that Republicans are focusing on restricting job requirements, implementing six-month registration checks, and limiting access for individuals who enter the country without formal approval regarding the social safety net program, according to sources and comments made by Johnson this week.
However, it remains unclear whether discussions will lead to caps on Medicaid for extended subscribers.
