March of Dimes Raises Concerns Over Harmful Medicaid Changes in H.R. 1

On July 3, 2025, March of Dimes issued a critical statement regarding the recent passage of H.R. 1, commonly referred to as the "One Big Beautiful Bill." According to the organization, this landmark legislation threatens to undermine Medicaid, introducing harmful changes that could significantly restrict access to crucial healthcare services for pregnant women, infants, children, and low-income families.

As an essential safety net, Medicaid is a pivotal resource for families across the United States, ensuring millions of people receive the healthcare they need. The implementation of H.R. 1 would shift costs to individual states, creating barriers to access and dismantling essential federal protections. This, March of Dimes argues, may endanger the health of countless families, particularly those most at risk due to socio-economic disadvantages.

Among the contentious provisions included in the bill are work requirements, increased cost-sharing arrangements, fiscal restrictions on healthcare providers, and cuts to the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) for expanded populations. These measures pose a direct threat to maternal and child health systems within the country. March of Dimes points out that as the U.S. remains the richest nation with the highest maternal mortality rates, the timing of these changes amplifies existing challenges.

Moreover, the proposed legislation could place immense financial strain on states, forcing them to make tough decisions about the services they can sustain. This jeopardizes critical optional benefits such as the recently adopted 12-month postpartum Medicaid extension in many states—both vital for improving health outcomes for mothers and their children.

Families may struggle even more to access comprehensive and timely healthcare throughout the pregnancy cycle, potentially exacerbating issues in maternal care deserts where healthcare services are already sparse. Access to essential maternity services could dwindle, contributing to the closure of labor and delivery units, maternity wards, and obstetric departments, further straining hospitals in underserved areas.

Cindy Rahman, President and CEO of March of Dimes, passionately condemned the passage of H.R. 1, stating, "The approval of H.R. 1 not only undermines the Medicaid program but also jeopardizes the health and survival of millions of women, babies, and families. This is not merely a political issue; it is profoundly personal."

Rahman recounted the story of Elizabeth, a mother of twins, who survived with just $14 in savings—thanks to Medicaid, which was her only option. Elizabeth’s experiences echo the realities of many families nationwide who depend on Medicaid for their well-being. According to March of Dimes, Medicaid accounts for more than 41% of all births in the U.S. and nearly 39% of all children, making any cuts to this lifeline a dangerous regression that could reverse decades of progress, intensifying disparities and further complicating access for our most vulnerable populations.

"States will be burdened with heartbreaking choices about what services they can offer, which threatens essential programs vital for maternal and child health, including postpartum care and access to obstetric providers," warned Rahman, emphasizing the preventable nature of over 80% of maternal deaths. "We cannot afford to step back now. March of Dimes remains steadfast in our commitment to advancing policies that protect mothers and babies, urging legislators from both parties to work with us in ensuring every family has the chance for a healthy start."

As discussions around healthcare reform continue, the organizational position of March of Dimes sheds light on the urgent need for policies that comprehensively support maternal and child health rather than compromise essential services and safety nets. The unfolding scenario emphasizes the critical role advocacy organizations play in safeguarding healthcare access, especially for the most vulnerable demographics. Moving forward, it will be essential for stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue that prioritizes health equity and the well-being of families nationwide.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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