WC Wisconsin News

Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.) has issued a statement regarding the House GOP's budget resolution, clarifying that it will not include cuts to federal programs as reported in the media and online.

"To be explicitly clear: today’s budget resolution did not include any cuts to specific programs. Anyone saying otherwise is lying and engaging in the fearmongering of our farmers, veterans, seniors, and most vulnerable populations. The budget resolution simply sets the framework for how the federal government can be better stewards of taxpayer dollars," said Van Orden. "Millions of Americans depend on Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, and I will have no part in cutting these programs for the folks that are legally entitled to them." According to a news release, Van Orden voted to pass the House Budget Resolution.

A website for a national organization representing hospitals and health care networks noted that the House of Representatives voted 217-215 to pass the bill. The American Health Association (AHA) highlighted that the bill calls for $2 trillion in spending cuts potentially affecting health care programs like Medicaid. The Trump administration spearheaded this bill with a focus on border security, defense, energy, and taxes. It allows for up to $4.5 trillion in spending for tax cuts and would raise the debt ceiling by $4 trillion.

Rick Pollack, President and CEO of AHA, urged politicians to ensure Medicaid remains intact. "On behalf of the hospitals, nurses, doctors and those who care for and serve the needs of the 72 million patients that rely on Medicaid, we urge you to consider the implications of hinging the budget reconciliation bill’s fate on removing health care access for millions of our nation's patients," Pollack said. "These are hardworking families, children, seniors, veterans, and disabled individuals who rely on essential health care services."