To the editor:
I write to express concern regarding proposed legislative changes to Medicaid. The enhanced premium tax credits for ACA Marketplace enrollees expire this year, making Medicaid unaffordable for some. Plans to decrease coverage will create even more barriers for northern Michigan residents’ access to healthcare. Estimates from the Kaiser Family Foundation in a May 20, 2025 study suggest that about 1/3 of current Medicaid recipients will lose coverage. Unfortunately, putting money in people’s pockets from tax cuts will not fix the problem. Recent history has already shown us that Medicaid reductions lead health care organizations to close rural clinics and hospitals. Additionally, the proposed work requirements have not worked where they have been tried. Even if the proposed changes cost only 15% - 20% of our neighbors Medicaid their eligibility that change would directly affect one out of every five or six residents. However, closed healthcare facilities affect us all. Because political actions that harm residents make no sense, Representative Bergman should have opposed the cuts to Medicaid. However, if he believes we will benefit, he should explain his position publicly without general talking points, sound bites or feel-good internet surveys. He should show us he’s done his homework by providing detailed projections of how the proposed changes will affect us.
Milton Eder Maple City
