Georgia's implementation of work requirements for Medicaid recipients has not resulted in significant coverage losses, although it has led to limited enrollment due to challenges in proving employment.

Ongoing negotiations in the House are contentious, with markups planned across several committees, including Energy and Commerce and Ways and Means, as moderate Republicans express concerns about potential cuts.

Medicaid currently serves 71 million low-income individuals and cost the federal government $618 billion in 2024, with costs projected to rise by 60% over the next decade according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).

Republicans are considering stricter work requirements for Medicaid recipients as a means to reduce spending, raising concerns that these changes could lead to millions losing their health coverage.

Another proposal suggests switching to a fixed funding formula for Medicaid, potentially saving $682 billion over ten years but resulting in 5.8 million individuals losing coverage.

Republicans also aim to revoke two rule changes made under President Biden that eased enrollment barriers, which could save $162 billion over ten years and reduce enrollment by 2.3 million.

The experiences in Arkansas and Georgia suggest that federal work requirements could lead to significant coverage losses due to inadequate outreach efforts and lack of state flexibility.

Moderate Republicans from high-enrollment districts have voiced opposition to Medicaid cuts, emphasizing their commitment to protecting vulnerable populations.

Congresswoman Gwen Moore has strongly opposed the Medicaid proposals, stating they would severely impact vulnerable populations in Wisconsin who rely on BadgerCare for essential services.

A recent KFF poll shows that most U.S. adults oppose cuts to Medicaid, reflecting public concern over potential reductions in healthcare access.

Proposed changes include reducing the federal match rate for expanded Medicaid populations, which could save $710 billion over ten years but leave 2.4 million people uninsured by 2034.

Historical data from Arkansas indicates that previous work requirements led to over 18,000 individuals losing their Medicaid coverage, raising alarms about similar federal initiatives.