Massachusetts advocates fear Trumps bill will unravel health safety net in Obamacares model state

Massachusetts advocates fear that proposed changes in a tax and spending bill could strip health insurance from a quarter of the 400,000 people enrolled in the state's Health Connector. State estimates suggest that up to 100,000 residents may lose their insurance due to new documentation requirements and limitations on tax credits. Audrey Morse Gasteier, executive director of the state's health insurance marketplace, condemned the potential rollback of coverage as “frustrating and heartbreaking. ” In Lawrence, where over 80% of the population is Hispanic or Latino, Kesia Moreta noted that immigration fears have led many to withdraw from health care programs. A Congressional Budget Office report estimates that these changes could result in $1.

1 trillion in health care spending cuts over the next decade. Vicky Pulos from the Mass Law Reform Institute warned that the proposed changes would incrementally dismantle the Affordable Care Act, leading to a significant increase in the uninsured population. The Trump administration argues that the changes are necessary to address fraud and abuse in the system. Advocates emphasize that the proposed regulations create unnecessary barriers, complicating access to vital health services for many residents.