07/09/2025
Today, July 3, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1, the budget reconciliation package, by a vote of 218-214. The legislation is expected to be signed into law by the President. The Epilepsy Foundation of America is devastated by the cuts and changes to Medicaid included in the reconciliation package, including but not limited to work reporting requirements, increased eligibility checks, cost-sharing requirements, and limits on provider taxes that fund home- and community-based services. As of June 28, the Congressional Budget Office has estimated that this legislation will result in at least 11.8 million more people losing their health insurance by 2034. With almost 40% of people living with active epilepsy between 18-64 years receiving coverage through Medicaid, as well as many children with epilepsy, this bill will impede the accessibility and affordability of healthcare and critical long-term services and supports. The Foundation is deeply grateful to the thousands of epilepsy advocates who took the time to speak up and send over 6,800 messages to Congress to protect Medicaid. The Foundation will continue to engage and advocate for access to affordable, comprehensive healthcare coverage for the entire epilepsy community. Most importantly, we will be communicating about the timeline for implementation of the provisions of this legislation, to ensure that the epilepsy community is aware of key dates and any opportunities for further engagement.
