Over 100 Medicaid advocates gathered at the Indiana Statehouse to voice their concerns over proposed work requirements and eligibility checks for the Healthy Indiana Plan. They argue that these changes could remove eligible individuals from the program, even if they are still in need of assistance. Susan Brackney, a freelance writer who uses the HIP program to afford her treatments for rheumatoid arthritis and depression, emphasized the importance of the program for her well-being.
Senator Ryan Mishler has been pushing for changes to Indiana’s growing Medicaid program, citing concerns over the program’s rapid expansion. His bill would require HIP users to work or volunteer at least 20 hours a week, with exceptions for certain individuals. The proposed legislation also includes quarterly eligibility checks, which could create challenges for freelance or seasonal workers like Brackney.
Hoosier Action Medicaid Organizer Tracy Hutchings-Goetz estimates that the bill could lead to the removal of up to 150,000 people from Medicaid coverage. Advocates are urging lawmakers to pressure federal counterparts to maintain Medicaid funding. Governor Mike Braun has already lobbied in Washington for continued support. The bill has passed the Senate and is currently under review in the House Ways and Means Committee.
Advocates are calling for a reevaluation of the proposed changes to ensure that eligible individuals can continue to receive the vital healthcare coverage provided by the HIP program.
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