The House just passed what President Trump calls the "Big Beautiful Bill," and its implications could be devastating for millions of Americans who depend on Medicare and Medicaid. As this massive budget reconciliation bill heads to the Senate, Katie and Stephanie break down how its complex provisions could trigger automatic cuts to these essential programs despite promises to protect them.

For people with disabilities, the stakes couldn't be higher. Many Americans don't realize that crucial supports like home and community-based service waivers are considered "optional" programs for states to fund - despite being lifelines that make community participation possible. When states face budget constraints from restricted federal matching funds, these services become vulnerable targets. Dr. Meredith shares her 17-year wait to secure services for her son with Down syndrome, illustrating the already overwhelming barriers families face to access and maintain these supports.

The podcast reveals a troubling historical context: institutional care remains the legal default for people with disabilities, with community-based options existing only as "waivers" from this outdated model. Despite being more humane and cost-effective, these critical services could face cuts while the bill simultaneously increases tax exemptions for the ultra-wealthy.

This episode serves as both an urgent call to action and an educational resource about how Medicaid waivers function. Listeners will gain clarity on the differences between Medicare and Medicaid, understand the bureaucratic gauntlet families navigate to access services, and learn concrete steps to advocate with their senators and governors before it's too late. The message is clear: society's treatment of its most vulnerable members reflects its true values, and now is the time to stand up for inclusion and support.

Call your senators today at 202-224-3121 to make your voice heard about this legislation that could impact millions of Americans with disabilities and their families.

Genetic Support Foundation: https://geneticsupportfoundation.org/

Lettercase National Center for Prenatal and Postnatal Resources: https://www.lettercase.org/