Spokane City Council Votes in Opposition to Potential Medicaid Cuts

In a decisive move, the Spokane City Council voted unanimously to oppose any proposed cuts to Medicaid at both the federal and state levels. Council Members Paul Dillon and Lili Navarrete voiced strong concerns, noting that such cuts would disproportionately affect Spokane, where Medicaid serves one in four residents. Dillon highlighted Medicaid's vital funding for mental health services, opioid disorder treatment, and homelessness response, stating, "We must communicate to our federal and state representatives to protect Medicaid at all costs. " Navarrete added that cutting Medicaid would not only threaten the health of the most vulnerable but also strain the community's healthcare system. The resolution mandates the City Clerk to send copies to Washington State's Governor and local legislative representatives, urging them to safeguard Medicaid funding.

This proactive stance reflects the Council's dedication to protecting the well-being of Spokane's residents. The vote emphasizes the importance of Medicaid in maintaining essential services that support public health. The Council's action serves as a rallying point for community advocacy on this critical issue.