Speak up for Iowans with disabilities

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds enacted a Medicaid work-requirements law last year. Starting in 2026, most Iowa Medicaid recipients must work at least 80 hours per month to qualify for the program.

These work requirements create a cruel Catch-22. Recipients must work a minimum number of hours to qualify for health insurance. But if they earn too much, they lose that needed insurance. And part-time jobs rarely offer employer-sponsored health care benefits.

Medicaid may be the only health insurance available to people with disabilities. And health insurance is not a luxury for these Iowans. Prescription medications, specialized equipment, and direct care services can cost thousands of dollars per year. A loss of health insurance could mean financial ruin for low-income Medicaid recipients.

Who else loses their health insurance because they want to work or work more hours? Why are people with disabilities treated differently?

We must let Medicaid recipients work without the fear of losing essential insurance. This is why the Iowa DD Council launched the “ Let Us Work!” campaign. The campaign’s goal is to “blitz” every Iowa legislator with in-person meetings, phone calls, and emails before the Jan. 12 legislative start date. “Let Us Work!” provides detailed instructions on how to reach your state lawmakers and what to say.

Be a voice for your neighbors who rely on Medicaid to thrive. Join me in the “Let Us Work” campaign at www.iowaddcouncil.org/let-us-work-campaign. The few minutes you spend doing it will help so many people in need.

Gordie Felger

Hiawatha