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From big picture to local story: Reporting on the impact of the megabill
The 2026 budget megabill signed into law on July 4 will impact the health of millions of Americans — especially those on Medicaid and other safety net programs including SNAP. How can journalists wrap their arms around these massive changes? In this webinar, panelists highlighted what aspects of the megabill journalists should pay close attention…
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Medicaid cuts: Tips for covering the legal frontlines
The reconciliation bill’s sweeping cuts to Medicaid, Medicare and ACA subsidies, along with sharp restrictions on family planning providers, mark one of the most significant rollbacks of federal health funding in a generation. Critics argue the law disproportionately targets low-income patients, reproductive health organizations and public health infrastructure — especially in rural and underserved areas.…
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How Trump’s budget impacts older adults
Aging services advocates say the FY 2026 budget bill, which includes massive cuts to Medicaid and nutrition services, will mean the upheaval of vital programs keeping older adults healthy and aging in their communities. Journalists can use any of the following tips as a starting point to ask local, state, and federal policymakers how these…
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Under harsh new work rules, millions will get kicked off Medicaid
A new work requirement for about 20 million Medicaid members is one of the most important stories to cover about the federal megabill that President Trump signed on July 4. The law requires adults aged 19 to 64 to work at least 80 hours each month to qualify for Medicaid coverage unless they are exempt…
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Trump’s budget bill could cost lives, put 5 million in debt: How to cover the story
As many as 17 million Americans will lose their health insurance and many others will incur more medical debt under the budget bill President Trump signed into law last Friday. The tax bill, or the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” would cut more than $1 trillion in federal spending over 10 years for Medicaid, food…
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Medicare, Medicaid and the Older Americans Act turn 60. Will they survive the next 60 years?
July marks the 60th anniversary of Medicare, Medicaid and the Older Americans Act (OAA). Along with Social Security, these programs form the bedrock of health and economic well-being for older Americans. Signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Johnson, they help ensure that every older adult has access to basic health care and income,…
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Report: Medicaid, SNAP cutbacks in ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ would trigger big job losses
Abstract Issue: The budget reconciliation bill recently passed by the House of Representatives (the One Big Beautiful Bill) reduces federal funding for Medicaid by $863 billion and for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) by $295 billion over 10 years. Goal: To estimate the impact of the bill on the economies, employment, and state and…
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