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Local health and aging officials warn of federal cuts; North Country coalition urges information and advocacy
Summary
Committee members heard warnings that proposed federal budget reductions could cut or eliminate programs that support seniors and caregivers. A public commenter who leads a regional Medicaid information effort urged neutral, fact-based outreach to local officials.
Warren County Health Services Committee members were told federal budget proposals for 2026 could reduce or eliminate several programs that support seniors and caregivers, and a public commenter described a new regional effort to explain Medicaid's local role.
During the Office for the Aging's annual report presentation, the presenter said the proposed 2026 federal budget would reduce funding for "aging network services, Alzheimer's disease support program, the congregate meals program, home delivered meals program" and — she added — eliminate several evidence-based health-promotion programs. She listed additional programs that could be reduced or eliminated, saying: "Lifespans respite care program, the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, Elder Justice and Adult Protective Services, Aging and Disability Resource Centers, and the State Health Insurance Assistance Programs." The presenter urged advocacy and provided a sign-on link to contact elected officials.
In public comment, John Ruggie introduced a volunteer group called the Health Care Coalition for the North Country and said the group's goal is to "help to explain why Medicaid matters here." Ruggie said Medicaid coverage in the region was "about 28 percent" of the population and warned that cuts could affect hospitals, nursing homes and rural medical practices that rely on Medicaid revenue. He told the committee the coalition has prepared short information pages and a website, northcountrymedicaid.org, intended to provide neutral, factual material for decision-makers.
Committee members asked for details on the specific cuts and timelines; the commenter and presenter said the federal process was still evolving, with multiple congressional committees considering changes and the totals being adjusted as negotiations continue. The presenter told the committee that if county leaders did not backfill lost federal funds the practical effects could include reductions in meals and transportation and fewer advocates for residents in nursing homes.
Ending: Committee members were urged to review the sign-on information and consider advocacy steps; the presenter and commenter both offered to provide more information to supervisors and staff.
