by Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has issued a stark warning about proposed Republican-led Medicaid cuts in Congress.
He says the move could strip hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians of health coverage and force struggling rural hospitals to close.
What Happened
Gov. Josh Shapiro spoke out on May 15, 2025, about the impact of potential federal Medicaid reductions.
He cautioned that billions in lost federal support could not be replaced by the state budget.
The warning follows congressional debates led by House Republicans proposing $800 billion in Medicaid cuts over the next decade.
Key Details
- Potential Losses for PA: Billions in Medicaid funding could be slashed.
- People Affected: Over 3 million Pennsylvanians are currently enrolled in Medicaid.
- Hospital Risk: Rural hospitals, already on the brink, may be forced to close.
- State Budget Impact: Shapiro says there are “no dollars” available to cover lost federal aid.
- Governor’s Budget Request: Includes a $2.5 billion increase for Medicaid to meet higher post-pandemic healthcare needs.
Reactions or Statements
Gov. Shapiro told WILK-FM:
“There is no back-filling at the state level. If they cut someone off Medicaid, they’re off.”
He emphasized that many rural facilities cannot survive further funding losses.
Shapiro rejected claims that the cuts would reduce waste, stating they would instead eliminate “lifesaving health care access.”
Investigation or What’s Next
Congressional Republicans are finalizing a budget plan that includes major spending cuts to Medicaid, food stamps, and climate programs.
Their proposal also introduces $5 trillion in tax breaks.
The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates 7.6 million Americans could lose insurance due to Medicaid cuts.
In Pennsylvania’s 1st District, 25,000 constituents could be affected, with a potential $1.31 billion loss in combined Medicaid and CHIP funding.
FAQs
Q: How many Pennsylvanians rely on Medicaid?
A: Approximately 3 million residents — nearly one in four.
Q: Can Pennsylvania replace the lost federal Medicaid funds?
A: No. Gov. Shapiro says the state cannot make up the shortfall.
Q: What are GLP-1 drugs and why are they mentioned?
A: Drugs like Wegovy and Ozempic are costly diabetes/weight loss medications. PA is seeking ways to control their rising costs.
Q: What does the proposed GOP budget include?
A: Nearly $800 billion in Medicaid cuts, along with large tax breaks and reductions to other social programs.
Q: When would these Medicaid cuts take effect?
A: Details are still being finalized in Congress, but they could impact budgets over the next 10 years.
Summary / Final Takeaway
Gov. Josh Shapiro has made clear that federal Medicaid cuts could have devastating consequences for Pennsylvania’s health system.
With millions relying on the program and rural hospitals already vulnerable, state leaders warn that the proposed federal budget could mean real-life losses in healthcare access across the state.
