Image from virtual press conference
Rep. Sharice Davids hosted a virtual press conference today, May 21, to speak out against what she called “dangerous and irresponsible” Medicaid cuts proposed in the latest House Republican budget. Rep. Davids warned that the plan would threaten health coverage for tens of thousands across her district.
“These cuts would force families to pay more for coverage to travel farther for potentially worse care, and all of that to fund massive tax breaks for billionaires and for big corporations. And this is at a time when so many Kansans are already feeling the strain of rising costs that really no one should have to deal with. People shouldn’t have to choose between putting food on the table and seeing a doctor,” said Rep. Davids.
According to Rep. Davids, nonpartisan analysis shows the proposed cuts could strip health coverage from up to 13.7 million Americans, including more than 61,000 Kansans in her district. That includes an estimated 41,000 children and 11,000 seniors who rely on Medicaid, known in Kansas as KanCare.
Davids was joined by the Hink family of Overland Park, whose adult son Brian, 49, has multiple disabilities and depends on Medicaid for both medical care and community-based services.
“Medicaid is essential to provide the mental and physical health and well being for Brian and others like him. Loss of funding in his case could result in loss of control of his diabetes and loss of community supports. He would place a burden of care on family members who can no longer provide that care,” said Brian’s father, Mark Hink.
Corey Craig warned cuts would harm rural health services. Sam Armistead said her brother, who relies on KanCare, would lose independence. Rep. Davids added the GOP budget threatens SNAP, clean energy, and retiree benefits, while raising debt. She proposed amendments to protect health care, farmers, and KU’s Cancer Center.
“This budget doesn’t target fraud or waste, it targets working families,” Rep. Davids said. “I’ll keep fighting to make sure Kansas communities aren’t left behind.”
