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July 1, 2025policy changeimmigration policyMedicaidstate budgetshealthcare accessimmigrationhealthcarefederalism

Democratic governors cut immigrant healthcare under federal pressure

Several Democratic governors agreed to restrict Medicaid eligibility for undocumented and certain legal immigrants in their states, responding to fiscal pressure created by federal cuts in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The moves, framed as budgetary necessity, drew sharp criticism from immigration advocates who argued the governors were implementing Trump-era policy goals. States including Colorado and Illinois began limiting enrollment for specific immigrant categories.