A Bold New Direction for Medicaid Under President Trump
Under President Donald Trump’s renewed leadership, House Republicans are advancing a sweeping legislative package aimed at restoring responsibility to government aid programs. At the heart of this effort: strong Medicaid work requirements designed to cut fraud, reduce dependency, and protect taxpayer dollars.
Work or Waive Benefits: A Return to Common Sense
The proposed rules would apply to able-bodied adults aged 19 to 64. Those who are truly in need—such as pregnant women, disabled individuals, or those in rehabilitation—will remain covered. But everyone else will need to work, train, or actively seek employment to qualify.
“People who are able-bodied and mentally capable should be contributing in some form,” said Rep. Don Bacon (R-Neb.). “That’s what most Americans expect—and it’s a matter of basic fairness.”
Millions May Lose Coverage—But for the Right Reasons
According to preliminary figures from the House Energy and Commerce Committee, nearly 5 million individuals may lose Medicaid coverage under the plan. Republicans are unapologetic.
The intent isn’t to cut off care from the vulnerable—it’s to ensure that those who can work do so. If someone qualifies for an exemption, they simply need to provide the proper documentation. That’s not a burden—it’s accountability.
Red Tape Complaints Are Nothing New
Left-leaning groups have pointed to individual stories—like a social worker in Georgia who struggled with the state’s digital portal—as supposed proof that these rules will “hurt people.” But her application was eventually approved retroactively.
The reality? Bureaucracy is always imperfect. But that’s not a reason to hand out billions in taxpayer-funded health care to people who refuse to meet basic requirements.
Massive Savings for American Taxpayers
Work requirements are projected to save over $301 billion over seven years, primarily by removing noncompliant individuals from Medicaid rolls. That’s money that can be reallocated to infrastructure, veteran services, and strengthening Social Security.
State Flexibility Without Loopholes
States won’t be able to waive these requirements. This is deliberate. In the past, states used waivers to keep Medicaid open to millions who should’ve aged out or gone back to work. Georgia is the only state currently enforcing a work requirement—and it’s working.
No Epidemic of “Non-Workers”? Think Again
Liberals often cite a KFF study showing most Medicaid recipients either work or can’t. But these surveys don’t account for poor documentation, fraud, or those who simply refuse to try. If someone can attend school, hold part-time jobs, or care for relatives, they can take simple steps to report that. No one is being punished for being sick or caregiving—they just have to show proof.
Building a Program That Prioritizes the Truly Needy
President Trump’s vision is clear: Medicaid should serve those who can’t help themselves—not those who won’t. This reform brings Medicaid back in line with its original purpose.
During his first term, Trump’s Health and Human Services Department supported state-level reforms. Arkansas briefly enforced work requirements in 2018, and over 18,000 people were removed—almost none of whom re-enrolled the next year.
That’s not a failure—it’s a sign the system was being exploited.
The Bottom Line: Reform That Makes Sense
While the Left cries foul, the Trump administration is restoring the value of work, promoting independence, and protecting taxpayers.
Isn’t it time our safety nets stopped being hammocks?