The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) is scrutinizing Medicaid work requirements with a focus on Georgia’s Pathways to Coverage program, the last of its kind in the nation. This examination emerges as Republican lawmakers propose expanding work requirements as a fiscal strategy to trim the federal deficit by $880 billion, supporting other initiatives like bolstering border security and introducing tax cuts favoring the wealthy. Georgia’s program garnered attention due to its high administrative costs and limited enrollment compared to potential full Medicaid expansion.
Implementing Medicaid work requirements has sparked debate, as shown by the 2019 court-blocked program in Arkansas. Critics argue such requirements disproportionately impact vulnerable individuals who face barriers to employment. The GAO’s review coincides with calls for transparency from Democratic senators, who express concerns about inefficiencies and increased taxpayer burdens.
Though Georgia’s Medicaid strategy is criticized for offering fewer benefits at higher costs, the state also reported increased enrollments via its Obamacare exchange due to federal subsidies. However, these subsidies are expiring, potentially raising federal spending by $335 billion over three years if extended. As Republican-led states consider reinstating work requirements, the GAO’s findings could influence legislative decisions balancing budget constraints and public health efforts.
