Rockland County, NY – Rockland County Legislators are calling on Congress to maintain Medicaid services without cuts, urging lawmakers to ensure that vital healthcare services for the county’s most vulnerable residents are not compromised. Legislator Dana G. Stilley introduced the resolution, which was unanimously supported by her colleagues. The resolution highlights the essential role Medicaid plays for many in the community, including children and adults with developmental disabilities, elderly seniors in nursing homes, and low-wage working families.
“Medicaid is crucial for nearly 150,000 Rockland County residents, and any reduction in funding would put their access to essential healthcare services at risk,” said Stilley. “These are our neighbors, friends, and family members who depend on Medicaid to meet their healthcare needs.”
The resolution comes in response to a proposed budget from the U.S. House of Representatives that includes substantial cuts to federal spending. On February 25, the House passed a budget that would reduce federal spending by $2 trillion over the next decade, with $800 billion of that reduction coming from the Energy and Commerce Committee, which oversees Medicaid and Medicare. The potential cuts have raised concerns about the impact on Medicaid services, which are crucial for many residents in Rockland County.
According to data from the United Hospital Fund, about 44 percent of Rockland County’s population—roughly 149,000 individuals—rely on Medicaid benefits. These include individuals with low income, disabilities, and seniors who need long-term care. Medicaid also covers essential services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, funding organizations like ARC of Rockland, Hamaspik of Rockland County, Jawonio, Inc., and Venture Together, which provide residential facilities, day programs, and clinics for individuals in need.
Stilley emphasized that the proposed budget cuts could harm not only the individuals who directly rely on Medicaid but also the nonprofit organizations that provide critical services to these communities. “The time for action is now,” she said “Many people who depend on Medicaid cannot advocate for themselves, and it’s up to us to speak out on their behalf.”
The county’s resolution reflects widespread concern over the potential consequences of reduced Medicaid funding and serves as a call to action for Congress to prioritize the well-being of vulnerable populations in Rockland County and beyond.
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