I remembered starting my job at B’nai B’rith in 2017 and feeling like all my attention was being monopolized by Congress’ attempt to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Media outlets were constantly updating their websites on which swing votes supported or opposed Congress’ efforts. Thankfully in July, Congress’ efforts failed and the ACA continues to benefit millions of people, including older adults. Fast forward to today, and it feels like 2017 all over again— this time potentially worse.

Congress is presently debating draft legislation that could impact immigration, taxes and energy production. Paying for this legislation would not be inexpensive. Based on recent congressional developments, I am concerned Congress and the White House’s priorities could be subsidized by cutting funding for social safety net programs older adults rely on, particularly Medicaid and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

According to the U.S. government, 7.2 million seniors are enrolled in Medicaid. This program helps pay for medical and nursing home expenses, prescription drugs and more. Also, according to the U.S. government, about 6.5 million households with an elderly individual receive SNAP, providing essential nutrition assistance. These two programs play a critical role in ensuring older adults have access to food and health care. The extent of Congress’ plans to cut from these programs remain unclear, however, it could include large funding cuts and/or work requirements. Medicaid and SNAP receiving less funding could mean less services and resources for older adults.

It’s not just across the board funding cuts that present problems; work requirements have been discussed that could impact those who qualify for these programs. To receive Medicaid and be exempt from work requirements, individuals might have to comply with onerous reporting. The Center for Budget and Policy Priorities reports that the burden of collecting the necessary paperwork may lead some to give up, forgoing essential healthcare. In addition, older adults are more likely to have chronic health conditions which impede work but might not meet the qualifications for an exemption. Taking away healthcare and nutrition will undoubtedly lead to less healthy outcomes now and later in life. Less heathy older adults will ultimately drive up the costs for Medicare.

Sadly, my concerns go beyond Congress. The White House has started implementing reductions in the federal workforce and hopes to continue this plan. Obviously, as the largest national Jewish sponsor of non-sectarian housing for low-income seniors, B’nai B’rith appreciates the critical need for adequate staffing at the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and other departments to ensure the proper administration and oversight of senior housing initiatives and other programs that impact seniors. A diminishing workforce could negatively impact quality of life for older adults in need.

The Social Security Administration (SSA) recently reported plans to reduce their workforce by thousands. Let’s remember this is already an office with historically low staffing levels. Reducing the workforce by thousands of people could inevitably lead to longer customer service waiting times and slow the daily operations of the agency.

I long to see the day when Congress and the White House stop debating cuts to programs that help the most vulnerable.  As I think about 2017, I can’t help but say, “here we go again”. How does preventing older adults from receiving medical care push America in the right direction? Just like in 2017, let’s hope Congress and the White House reconsider these cuts so older adults in the most dire need can continue to receive the services and help they need.

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Evan Carmen, Esq. is the Legislative Director for Aging Policy at the B’nai B’rith International Center for Senior Services. Click here to read more from Evan Carmen.