Naples, FL – The Foundation for Government Accountability applauds Governor Kay Ivey’s leadership in bringing work requirements for able-bodied adults on Medicaid to Alabama.
Today, Alabama’s Medicaid Agency proposed a waiver to require able-bodied adults on Medicaid to work, train, or volunteer at least part-time. Alabama’s waiver follows recent guidance from the Trump administration on the issue. When approved, Alabama’s reforms will move thousands of able-bodied adults from welfare to work.
Despite the state’s improving economy and a record-low 3.5 percent unemployment rate, the number of able-bodied adults trapped in dependency continues to grow. The number of able-bodied adults enrolled in Alabama’s Medicaid program has doubled since 2013.
In addition to moving able-bodied adults out of welfare, Alabama’s Medicaid Agency estimates that the waiver will save more than $300 million over the next five years, freeing up resources for the truly needy and for other state priorities.
“We commend Alabama for joining a growing number of states showing their commitment to ending the devastating cycle of dependency,” said Tarren Bragdon, CEO and President of FGA. “When approved, this waiver will empower individuals through the power and dignity of work and preserve resources for the Alabamans who truly need them.”
The Foundation for Government Accountability is a non-profit, multi-state think tank that specializes in health care, welfare, and work reform. To learn more, visit TheFGA.org.
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