Beyond Medicaid recipients, the law could increase the uninsured population and lead to higher healthcare costs overall, as delayed treatments and worsening health conditions become more common.

Governor Glenn Youngkin has dismissed Democrats' estimates of Medicaid losses as exaggerated, calling them 'made up,' while Republicans argue that outdated studies suggest fewer people will be affected.

A recent federal bill signed into law by President Trump on July 9, 2025, is set to bring sweeping changes to Medicaid, affecting millions of recipients nationwide, including those in Virginia.

Health care advocates and hospital representatives warn that these changes might lead to hospital closures, especially in rural areas, and reduce access to healthcare for vulnerable populations.

The rapid legislative process has caused confusion and differing interpretations about the law's effects, with analysts struggling to keep pace with the significant changes.

Virginia lawmakers remain uncertain about the exact number of individuals who may lose Medicaid coverage, as final analyses from the Congressional Budget Office are still pending, though Democrats estimate over 322,000 Virginians could be impacted.

The CBO's latest estimates suggest that approximately 10.8 million Americans could lose their insurance under the new law, with broader implications potentially affecting up to 17 million due to related provisions.

The law introduces work requirements for Medicaid recipients, which could pose challenges for those unable to maintain full-time employment, including individuals with disabilities.

Virginia hospitals are concerned about financial strains from reduced Medicaid funding, which could result in higher costs for privately insured patients and negatively impact patient care.