There has been a lot in the news lately about proposed changes to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security at the state and federal levels. As we know, the people we care for rely on all of these programs for support and to live in the community of their choice. At the moment, nothing has been officially stated as to what any proposed changes will look like but just that they are planning to cut the budget.
The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council recently put out a video that discusses the possible changes and what it could mean for Iowans going forward.
Right now, we need to remind our representatives in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate how important Medicaid programs are in supporting people living with disabilities. We need your help and ask that you call this hotline where you will be immediately routed to your state representative.
“Hands Off Medicaid Hotline”: 866-426-2631
- You will be asked to give your zip code.
- Your call will be automatically directed to your representative.
- You may speak with a staff member or be directed to voicemail. If you reach voicemail, please leave a message with your name and zip code!
- Below, we have included an example script for those who may find it useful.
We have included a script for those that find it useful:
Hello, my name is XXXX, and I am one of your constituent’s from (Org and City).
I’m calling to urge you to protect Medicaid funding and oppose conversion of federal Medicaid funding to block grants, reduction of federal contributions to Medicaid expansion costs, and reductions to the federal match rates that states receive for Medicaid funding.
The individuals we support through (org’s name) rely on Medicaid for their essential care. This includes supported community living, employment services, and highly cost-effective healthcare. Additionally, our organization relies on this funding to employ many people that contribute to our economy in Iowa. Any reductions to Medicaid would harm vulnerable Iowans like those at (org’s name) in your district.
Thank you for representing Iowans and your constituents who rely on Medicaid.
*If leaving a voicemail, leave your name and full street address to ensure they can validate the call.
Just a reminder, here is the list of the Iowa representatives:
Senator Joni Ernst
- 260 Russell Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510
- (202) 224-3254
- Contact
Senator Chuck Grassley
- 135 Hart Senate Office Building Washington, DC 20510
- (202) 224-3744
- Contact
Representative Ashley Hinson
- 2458 Rayburn House Office Building
- (202) 225-2911
- Contact
Representative Mariannette Miller-Meeks
- 504 Cannon House Office Building
- (202) 225-6576
- Contact
One thing that has been made clear to our advocates is that when Iowans start calling, legislators really listen. We can make a difference!
