Advocates Push for Health Coverage Protection for Immigrant Families in Washington
OLYMPIA, Wash. — Immigrant rights advocates in Washington are calling on Governor Ferguson to use emergency funds to maintain health coverage for immigrant families who are facing potential cuts to federal Medicaid.
These advocates warn that starting October 1, as many as 15,000 immigrants in Washington, including those with refugee status, could lose their healthcare coverage due to a budget bill enacted during the Trump administration, known as H.R. 1.
One affected individual, Ukrainian refugee Liliana Chernova, expressed that the loss of coverage would severely impact families already struggling with significant health issues. Chernova, who previously worked as a caregiver for both her daughter and her mother-in-law, the latter battling stage four cancer, made an emotional appeal to state officials via an interpreter.
“I’m asking you to protect us, not take away our medical insurance,” Chernova stated. “Let us live with dignity and not deny our clients the healthcare they urgently need.”
The Service Employees International Union Local 775, which represents over 60,000 long-term care workers—many of whom are immigrants—has stated that lawmakers had initially budgeted to protect those affected by these cuts. However, they also indicated that the extent and pace of the federal reductions are more significant and quicker than previously anticipated.
Advocates are hopeful that state officials will respond to this urgent need and help secure vital health services for these communities.
