The House on April 10 adopted the Senate-approved budget resolution, setting the stage for President Trump’s policy priorities.
Key differences remain between the House and Senate frameworks. The House is tasked with identifying at least $1.5 trillion in savings — a stark contrast to the Senate’s $4 billion minimum. One area of particular concern is Medicaid, as the resolution directs the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, the committee with jurisdiction over Medicaid, to cut $880 billion.
Congressional committees now are drafting legislation to meet their savings targets. Following the two-week recess, House Republicans are expected to begin marking up their package. During the committee process, leadership will work to coordinate bill language that can pass both chambers with the requisite majority support, with the goal of delivering it to President Trump’s desk by Memorial Day.
Act to Defend Medicaid
Members of America’s Essential Hospitals are encouraged to sign this letter to Congress urging lawmakers to reject harmful cuts to Medicaid in budget reconciliation. The deadline to sign is April 23.
Hearing Summaries
On April 8, the House Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health held a hearing on the biosimilar market and how to lower costs for patients. Subcommittee Republicans emphasized the potential of biosimilars to reduce health care costs and increase competition, expressing concerns about regulatory and policy barriers hindering their adoption. They criticized several factors, including the 340B Drug Pricing Program, for disincentivizing drug development. Subcommittee Democrats focused on defending the Inflation Reduction Act and condemning President Trump’s efforts to cut funding for the National Institutes of Health, Food and Drug Administration, and Medicaid. They expressed concerns that Medicaid cuts would be harmful, particularly for underserved communities.
On April 9, the House Committee on Appropriation Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies held a hearing, titled “Public Witness Day,” emphasizing the need for sustained federal investment in public health, education, and safety programs. Ranking Member Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) expressed strong support for these priorities and criticized recent funding cuts and administrative changes that threaten progress across these areas.
Committee Activity This Week
The House and Senate are on Easter recess until April 28.
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