Senate Budget Bill Advances with Major Medicaid Impacts
The Senate released its Finance text on June 16, fast-tracking it for floor debate the week of June 24 and aiming for final passage before the July 4 recess. This version includes what would be the largest Medicaid cut in U.S. history—between $785 billion and $900 billion over ten years. The Congressional Budget Office estimates that roughly 10.9 million people could lose coverage if the bill passes as written. Key provisions include work requirements for adults ages 19 to 55 (including parents of teenagers) and a new $35 outpatient copay, and a 3.5% cap on provider taxes.

A cloture vote could come as early as June 27, triggering 20 hours of debate followed by a “vote-a-rama” with unlimited amendments. Health advocates are working to advance amendments that would restore flexibility around provider taxes and eliminate the work requirement provision. If the Senate and House versions can’t be reconciled quickly, a conference committee is expected. While GOP leadership is pushing for a vote before July 4th, moderate Republicans—dubbed “Medicaid moderates” – Senators Hawley (MO), Moran (KS), Collins (ME), and Murkowski (AK)—are demanding stronger protections for rural hospitals before moving forward.

Further Reading

• Trump Medicaid cuts could devastate rural health services, hospitals warn, Reuters, June 13
• Senate Republicans propose deeper Medicaid cuts in draft bill, Associated Press, June 16
• Tracking the Medicaid provisions in the 2025 budget bill, KFF, updated June 17

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Keep calls flowing to Kansas and Missouri Senators urging protection of rural hospitals and opposition to counter-productive work requirements. See contact info below.

Sample Message for Calls or Emails

Medicaid is a lifeline for Missouri—covering children, pregnant women, nursing home residents, and people with disabilities.  Rural hospitals depend on this funding. Work requirements further limit access to care and are counter-productive. I urge you to protect Medicaid and vote NO on any proposal that would cut funding or restrict access. 

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KANSAS
Senator Jerry Moran
District Office – 913-393-0711, DC Office – 202-224-6571
Email: www.moran.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/e-mail-jerry

Senator Roger Marshall
District Office – 913-879-7070, DC Office – 202-224-4774
Email: www.marshall.senate.gov/contact/contact-form/ 

MISSOURI
Senator Josh Hawley
District Office – 816-960-4694, DC Office – 202-224-6154
Email: www.hawley.senate.gov/contact-senator-hawley/ 

Senator Eric Schmitt
District Office – 816-849-6234, DC Office – 202-224-5721
Email: www.schmitt.senate.gov/contact/share-your-opinion/