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Congress is advancing a budget reconciliation bill that proposes significant cuts to Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). The proposed reductions amount to $715 billion from Medicaid and $313 billion from SNAP. These funds are intended to support tax cuts for billionaires and corporations, as well as an aggressive deportation program.
Medicaid plays a crucial role in providing healthcare, covering 40% of mothers and 49% of children. The SNAP program faces cuts by redefining children over seven years old as "nonworking adults," effectively removing them from receiving nutrition assistance.
In response, the United Church of Christ (UCC) has been actively opposing these cuts. From April 21-25, the UCC organized Medicaid and SNAP Advocacy Week in Washington, D.C., which saw participation from 51 congregations and 16 nonprofit organizations. Participants engaged with members of Congress to express concerns about how these cuts conflict with their religious values and threaten church programs.
Rev. Rebecca Riekse of Ada Congregational Church reported a positive meeting with Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-MI), stating, “We met with Rep. Hillary Scholten and all went well.” Another faith leader noted that congressional staff seemed receptive during discussions about the impact of these cuts.
Abigail Cipparone, Domestic Policy Advocate for the UCC D.C. office, emphasized their stance: “As the United Church of Christ, we refuse to let our elected officials balance the federal budget on the backs of the poor.”
The UCC National Setting joined other faith groups in lobbying efforts on Capitol Hill. On May 8, over 500 faith leaders across several states signed letters expressing concern over these budgetary changes.
Rev. Karen Georgia A. Thompson urged Congress to oppose this legislation: “The current proposed budget ignores the needs of communities already disenfranchised... I urge Congress to vote against the budget reconciliation bill.”
An interfaith coalition gathered on May 13-14 for prayers and songs outside committee hearings considering these cuts. Faith advocates displayed messages such as “UCC for healthcare” while attending committee sessions where legislation was passed affecting millions' access to healthcare and nutrition.
A key Senate vote is approaching on June 10 regarding this reconciliation package. Faith leaders plan a procession at the U.S. Capitol before this vote takes place.
Rev. Michael Neuroth expressed his opposition: “Children are blessings that help us see Christ’s love for the world... I cannot support Congress cutting assistance that helps children get enough to eat.”
