Congressman Evans Urges Governor Polis to Remove Illegal Immigrants from State Medicaid
“Each new dollar that we choose to invest in care for illegal immigrants is a dollar that could go to supporting long-term care for seniors or keeping our rural hospitals open”
WASHINGTON — Colorado Congressman Gabe Evans sent a letter to Governor Jared Polis expressing grave concerns over Colorado’s sanctuary state policy of covering illegal immigrants with state Medicaid funds – prioritizing benefits for those unlawfully present in our country over citizens who need it most: individuals with disabilities, single mothers, children, and seniors.
Click here to read the full letter or read highlights below.
➡️ “Other Democrat-run states like California and Minnesota are beginning to walk back their policies that over free and subsidized health care to illegal immigrants […] It is disheartening to see Colorado continue to double down and prioritize individuals who are unlawfully present even in the face of adverse impacts on Americans who need Medicaid the most.”
➡️ “Each new dollar that we choose to invest in care for illegal immigrants is a dollar that could go to supporting long-term care for seniors or keeping our rural hospitals open.”
➡️ “There is a renewed urgency to revise this policy in light of the likely enactment of federal legislation to reduce the Medicaid FMAP for the expansion population from 90% to 80% for sanctuary states who use taxpayer dollars to cover illegal immigrants. As you know, this change would pose significant budgetary challenges to Colorado – but only if the state continues to pursue this policy.”
➡️ “We stand united in the common cause of protecting Medicaid for generations to come by ensuring only lawful beneficiaries can access this critical program. We ask that you join us in protecting Medicaid and work with the State Legislature to overturn existing laws and programs that prioritize illegal immigrants over American citizens.”
Background:
Colorado is 1 of just 7 states that offer illegal immigrants free health care.
In the next fiscal year, beginning July 1, the cost of Colorado paying for health care for illegal immigrants expected to double to $32 million.
Joining Congressman Evans on the letter are Colorado Congressman Jeff Crank and Congresswoman Lauren Boebert.
For more information on how Colorado mismanages Medicaid, read the fact sheet here.