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Scope LevelNational
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Last Update2025-06-29
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Event Overview
Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) defended proposed Medicaid work requirements during an interview on June 29, 2025, claiming they target fraud and encourage work. The bill, which requires adults aged 19-64 to work 80 hours monthly for Medicaid eligibility, faces opposition due to CBO estimates predicting 7.8 million could lose coverage. Critics argue it risks leaving low-income individuals uninsured, with projections of 16 million losing coverage by 2034.
Event Timeline
Senator Markwayne Mullin Advocates Medicaid Work Requirements Amid Controversy
In an exclusive interview with NBC's Kristen Welker during "Meet the Press" on June 29, 2025, Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma) addressed various contentious issues surrounding President Trump's recent domestic megabill. Mullin insisted that the bill, which proposes new Medicaid work requirements, would not contradict Trump's promise not to cut Medicaid, despite Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that indicate 7.8 million people could lose access to the program if it passes. He emphasized that the bill targets fraud, waste, and abuse within Medicaid, claiming, "We don't pay people in this country to be lazy. We want to give them an opportunity."
Mullin’s comments come amid a narrow vote by the Senate GOP to commence general debate on the legislation, with a final vote anticipated shortly; some Republicans, such as Senator Thom Tillis of North Carolina, expressed dissent due to concerns about the Medicaid provisions. The bill aims to impose work requirements on adults aged 19 to 64 who apply for or enroll in Medicaid. It stipulates that these individuals must work or engage in qualifying activities for 80 hours monthly to remain eligible for Medicaid benefits.
Critics, including Allison Orris from the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, argue that these changes could leave millions uninsured, especially among low-income individuals. By 2034, CBO projects that overall, 16 million could lose coverage due to the combined effects of the bill on Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Mullin, however, insists that the new requirements are essential to "future-proof" Medicaid and ensure it serves those who truly need support.