The impact of proposed Medicaid cuts on Oklahomans

The proposed federal budget bill seeks to cut over $600 billion from Medicaid, raising concerns among advocates about the potential impact on thousands of Oklahomans, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Maranda Figueroa, Chief Operating Officer at A New Leaf, states that nearly all of their 450 clients depend on Medicaid for essential services, and cuts could severely limit their independence and quality of life.

Q: What are the proposed changes to Medicaid funding?

A: The proposed federal budget bill calls for more than $600 billion in cuts to Medicaid.

Q: How will these cuts affect Oklahomans?

A: Advocates are concerned that these cuts could devastate thousands of Oklahomans, particularly those with intellectual and developmental disabilities who rely on Medicaid for healthcare coverage.

Q: What is the perspective of local organizations like A New Leaf?

A: Maranda Figueroa, Chief Operating Officer at A New Leaf Owasso, expressed that about 450 clients depend on Medicaid for support, and she estimates that 99% of them would be affected by these cuts.

Q: What services does A New Leaf provide?

A: A New Leaf assists with medication, transportation to job training, and housing assistance. Cuts to federal funding could strain the nonprofit's ability to provide these essential services.

Q: How is A New Leaf preparing for potential budget cuts?

A: Although nothing is finalized, A New Leaf is preparing for a worst-case scenario by maintaining constant communication with legislators.

Q: What does U.S. Representative Tom Cole say about the budget bill?

A: Representative Tom Cole states that the bill does not cut existing Medicaid funding but will slow the rate of its increase in the future. He emphasizes that people with serious needs will still be protected.

Q: What does Cole believe about Medicaid's role?

A: Cole describes Medicaid as a safety-net program designed to support individuals with serious needs, including single mothers and people with disabilities.

Q: How do the proposed cuts affect independence for clients of A New Leaf?

A: Figueroa warns that many clients rely entirely on Medicaid to maintain their independence, and cuts could severely limit their choices, impacting their quality of life.

Q: What is the community's response to these potential changes?

A: Figueroa highlights that the community supports individuals of all abilities through donations and inclusive practices.

Q: What is the timeline for this budget bill?

A: President Trump aims to have the bill on his desk by Friday, highlighting the urgency of the situation.