Alabama Democrats Push for Health Coverage Amid Medicaid Expansion Debate
Washington, D.C. — Alabama’s Democratic lawmakers are championing the Bridge to Medicaid Act to extend health insurance to over 100,000 uninsured Alabamians, a response to the state’s refusal to expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Alabama is among ten states that have not taken this step, leaving many residents caught in a precarious situation where they earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private health insurance.
Spearheaded by U.S. Reps. Terri Sewell and Shomari Figures, the proposed legislation would provide temporary subsidies for individuals earning between 100% and 138% of the federal poverty level for three years. “Improving access to quality, affordable health care is one of my top priorities,” Sewell stated, highlighting the urgent need for action in the face of Alabama’s continued Medicaid expansion denial.
The legislation also aims to enhance ACA premium subsidies starting in 2026 for those under 138% of the poverty line, reducing deductibles and out-of-pocket costs even further in subsequent years. Under this bill, individuals would have year-round enrollment options and the federal share of Medicaid spending in expansion states would increase from 90% to 93%.
Additionally, Sewell and Figures support the COVER Now Act, which would allow local governments in non-expansion states to provide insurance to potential Medicaid recipients.
This Democratic proposal emerges amidst a broader national debate as President Trump advocates for significant cuts to Medicaid, potentially leaving 8.6 million people uninsured over the next decade, according to a Congressional Budget Office report. The Energy and Commerce Committee is set to review the legislation, underscoring an ongoing clash over health care access in the U.S.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image associated with the presented article. Due to copyright reasons, we are unable to use the original images. However, you can still enjoy the accurate and up-to-date content and information provided.
