By House Democratic Caucus Chair Lindsey Burke
The Kentucky House Democratic Caucus stands united in opposition to House Bill 2 — the “One Big Bad Medicaid Bill” — that would make it even harder for Kentuckians to access and keep the health care they depend on.
At a time when families are facing rising costs and uncertainty from the federal “One Big Ugly Bill,” HB 2 adds layers of bureaucracy, new eligibility hurdles, and burdensome reporting requirements that go far beyond federal law. These requirements increase red tape and raise the risk that eligible Kentuckians will lose coverage simply because of paperwork barriers.
House Democrats offered eight amendments aimed at protecting coverage for those who need it most. Our proposals would have removed excessive requirements, aligned state policy with federal standards, and reduced unnecessary administrative barriers that lead to wrongful disenrollment. Unfortunately, those amendments were rejected.
We believe Medicaid should work for patients, families, seniors, children, and people with disabilities, not against them. Policies that take health care away because of technicalities and administrative complexity put health at risk, strain providers, and shift costs onto emergency rooms and local communities.
Kentucky has made meaningful progress expanding access to care. HB 2 moves us backward.
House Democrats remain committed to protecting access to health care, strengthening our health system, and ensuring that no Kentuckian loses coverage because of unnecessary red tape.
We will continue fighting for policies that put people first.
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Note to readers: House Bill 2 is now under consideration in the Kentucky Senate. To share your feedback with lawmakers, especially your senator, about House Bill 2, call the Legislative Message Line at 1-800-372-7181.
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