New Jersey Citizen Action (NJCA) has expressed strong opposition to Congressman Tom Kean Jr.’s recent vote in favor of a markup by the House Energy and Commerce Committee. This decision, according to NJCA, threatens Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and America’s healthcare system by potentially depriving millions of health insurance and increasing costs for others.
Laura Waddell, Health Care Program Director for NJCA, criticized Kean’s decision, stating: “Through his vote, Congressman Tom Kean Jr. chose to stand with billionaires and corporations and declare war on our healthcare system and New Jersey’s working families.” She emphasized that this legislative move could lead to increased expenses and reduced accessibility as hospitals might close due to budget cuts.
The proposed changes target several vulnerable groups including 1.8 million New Jersey residents reliant on NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid who may face coverage loss due to additional bureaucracy and work requirements. Moreover, 60 percent of nursing home residents in New Jersey along with one-third of the state’s children are at risk. The ACA marketplace users numbering over 500,000 could also be affected.
Waddell further stated: “Voting for this markup promotes the myth that we can improve Medicaid by dropping recipients who are too lazy to work.” She noted that most adults on Medicaid are either employed or unable to work due to various reasons such as illness or disability.
Additionally, Waddell pointed out potential impacts like unsustainable state budget strains and setbacks in affordable healthcare progress within New Jersey. Reduced tax credits combined with rising premiums might render coverage less affordable while exclusionary measures against certain demographics like DACA recipients could further limit access.
NJCA urges Congressman Kean to reconsider his stance should the bill advance in Congress. They call upon other lawmakers to emulate Representatives Frank Pallone and Robert Menendez by opposing any legislation cutting Medicaid or healthcare services aimed at benefiting wealthy individuals or corporations.
