Rep. Rader Speaks Out Against Proposal That Would Strip Medicaid from Approximately 60,000 Ohioans

COLUMBUS – State Rep. Tristan Rader (D-Lakewood) today submitted a letter to Director Maureen Corcoran of the Department of Medicaid warning against the proposed Medicaid work requirement to retain coverage. This proposal would threaten the healthcare of almost 62K Ohioans, creating unnecessary barriers to accessing essential services. Essentially, the proposed “work requirement,” is just another name for Medicaid cuts.

The proposed work requirements would mandate that able-bodied adults aged 19 to 55, without dependents, engage in work or related activities to retain Medicaid coverage. Similar requirements in other states, such as Arkansas, resulted in catastrophic outcomes. Over 18,000 people lost their healthcare before courts stepped in to halt the program.

“There is no evidence that these policies increase workforce participation—but there is ample evidence that they cause harm, leading to more families falling through the cracks,” said Rep. Rader. “We cannot have a strong economy without a healthy workforce. This is a simple but powerful truth. Medicaid is a lifeline for so many Ohioans, enabling them to access preventative care, manage chronic conditions, and stay healthy enough to work.”

The Ohio Department of Medicaid held two hearings for this policy on January 3 and January 9. Ohioans are encouraged to submit public comments until January 21, 2025 at 5pm EST regarding this proposal to GroupVIII@medicaid.ohio.gov.

A copy of Rep. Rader’s letter is attached here.