New federal legislation has some Long Islanders worried about how they will pay for health care
There are also new requirements to receive Medicaid, which the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island says 680,000 Long Islanders rely on for health care.
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Gov. Kathy Hochul says 1.5 million New Yorkers will lose health care coverage because of federal funding cuts from President Donald Trump's new funding and tax cuts bill.
There are also new requirements to receive Medicaid, which the Health and Welfare Council of Long Island says 680,000 Long Islanders rely on for health care.
"You're required to work 80 hours per month, or show that you're actively seeking employment, or show that you're volunteering," said Vanessa Baird-Streeter, president and CEO of Health and Welfare Council of Long Island.
Republican Reps. Andrew Garbarino and Nick LaLota say Medicaid benefits will not be cut for pregnant women, children, seniors, people with disabilities or low-income families.
Jennifer Cona, an attorney specializing in elder law, says a lot of these changes will take effect closer to 2027.
Cona says seniors who rely on Medicaid should get their documents in order now, like making sure they have their birth certificate.
"Social Security statements, all that kind of documentation, in addition to five years of financial records," Cona said.
The Health and Welfare Council of Long Island says now is the time to see the doctor if you're at risk or think you're at risk of losing your benefits.
If you have questions about access to Medicaid, you can reach out to Health and Welfare Council of Long Island.
