SisterSong’s Statement on the Impact of Republican Medicaid Cuts on Rural Communities

“Congress voting to slash $880 billion of Medicaid funding is another example of electeds deprioritizing our health, safety and well-being. Medicaid is more than a budget line item, it’s a lifeline for millions. Funding is essential to ensuring that our communities have access to the healthcare services we deserve. Without sufficient Medicaid funding, our hospitals, clinics and neighbors will suffer. 

In my home state of Georgia—where nearly half of all counties are maternity care deserts—these cuts could close providers' doors, exacerbating the already dire maternal health crisis. This crisis isn’t limited to Georgia; it’s playing out across the South and rural America. Cutting Medicaid funding will only widen existing barriers, widen health disparities and jeopardize the safety of moms and babies. 

Reproductive Justice demands that we have the ability to make decisions about our future—and protecting access to safe and equitable healthcare brings us closer to making our vision a reality. We need our elected leaders to put our health above partisan interests. Our bodies and lives depend on it.”