Pinehurst Today

U.S. Representatives Richard Hudson and Dan Crenshaw have reintroduced the Protect Medicaid Act, aiming to safeguard Medicaid's integrity by preventing states from using federal funds to provide healthcare benefits to illegal immigrants. The legislation is accompanied by a similar bill introduced in the Senate by Senator Bill Cassidy.

Rep. Hudson emphasized that "providing taxpayer-funded Medicaid to illegal immigrants is against the law" and expressed concern about its impact on vulnerable Americans relying on Medicaid. He stated, "We must stop liberal states from forcing American taxpayers to foot the bill for illegals' healthcare costs."

Rep. Crenshaw echoed these sentiments, noting that "Medicaid exists to provide a lifeline for vulnerable Americans—pregnant women, children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities—not to subsidize illegal immigration." He criticized states exploiting loopholes as mismanaging funds and jeopardizing care for those dependent on Medicaid.

Senator Cassidy shared his perspective based on his experience as a doctor in California: “Working as a doctor in California, I saw that free health care is a magnet for illegal immigration.” He argued for focusing on domestic health needs rather than straining resources.

The proposed legislation seeks to close existing loopholes allowing states like California to use federal tax dollars indirectly for benefits provided to illegal immigrants. Currently, federal law prohibits such use of funds directly but allows some administrative flexibility at the state level.

Supporters of the bill argue it will prevent increased wait times and misappropriation of taxpayer dollars intended for American citizens.

For further details on the bill text, additional information can be found through related sources.