Despite President Donald Trump’s repeated assurances that he would not allow Medicaid to be cut, the recently passed “Big Beautiful Bill” by Congress aims to slash hundreds of billions of dollars from the program that provides healthcare for millions of poor, elderly, and disabled Americans. In Georgia, the exact number of individuals who will lose Medicaid coverage due to the 2025 legislation is yet to be determined, but estimates suggest it could range from 72,000 to 160,000 people.

The proposed bill shifts Medicaid costs from the federal government to the state, potentially leading to cuts in coverage or benefits. Furthermore, the expiration of enhanced premium tax credits in 2025 could cause significant increases in health insurance premiums through Georgia Access, making coverage unaffordable for many. When combined with other healthcare-related bill provisions and the potential expiration of enhanced premium tax credits, an estimated 610,000 Georgians could become uninsured.

Here’s a breakdown of the factors contributing to these potential losses:

  1. Medicaid Cuts: The proposed legislation shifts Medicaid costs from the federal government to the state, potentially leading to cuts in coverage or benefits.
  2. Increased Premiums: The expiration of enhanced premium tax credits in 2025 could cause substantial increases in health insurance premiums through Georgia Access, making coverage unaffordable for many.
  3. Medicaid Work Requirements: Georgia’s “Pathways to Coverage” program, which includes work requirements, could also lead to some individuals losing coverage if they don’t meet the program’s criteria.
  4. Uncompensated Care Costs: As more people lose coverage, hospitals may experience an increase in uncompensated care costs, which could lead to higher premiums for those with insurance.

As the implementation of the “Big Beautiful Bill” approaches, the potential impact on Georgia’s Medicaid recipients and the broader healthcare landscape remains a pressing concern. Advocates and lawmakers will continue to monitor the situation closely, working to mitigate the effects of these cuts on vulnerable populations.

Information for this article came from the Georgia Budget & Policy Institute, The Georgia Recorder and the Joint Economic Committee