Op-ed: Hoosiers need Medicaid and that won’t change with a new administration

As Trump takes his second oath of office, we get closer to the possibility of Robert F. Kennedy and Dr. Mehmet Oz as our nation’s top public health officials. They’ll become the point people in charge of state Medicaid funding and policies. Like Indiana, the federal government will have some difficult budget decisions to make thanks to stagnating revenue.   

Republican tax cuts, mostly for the wealthy, continue to stress our budgets. Something will have to give as we approach an unsustainable level of national debt. Trump has declared cuts for Social Security and Medicare off-limits, but no similar promise has been made for Medicaid. It’s clear that federal funding for Medicaid is on the chopping block. Remember that the federal government foots around 70% of Indiana’s $19 billion bill. Over 2 million Hoosiers are on this growing health care program, and any significant changes could affect their access to care. Here are a couple of devastating cuts that could happen to the Medicaid program: 

 The first is block granting. The idea of block grant federal funding for Medicaid has existed since President Ronald Reagan's administration. With these grants, the government gives a fixed amount of funds based on inflation and population growth. This plan motivates states to contain costs, but it’s difficult to anticipate how much money Medicaid will need. Indiana would fare poorly under this plan since flat population growth and limited medical inflation would lead to a smaller grant. Our state would need to increase its share of funding to maintain the status quo. We can forget any additional enhancements like more waiver slots or the coverage of GLPs for weight loss. Block granting hasn’t gone anywhere for forty years, but with Trump returning to office this could be a reality. 

Second is the sunsetting of programs that fund our HIP program and supplements for eldercare assistance. If federal support is drastically reduced, the HIP program will end unless state dollars fund it entirely. 

The third is the recategorization of mandatory services. Medicaid currently has two general types of services covered: mandatory and optional. Mandatory services include hospital visits, doctor appointments and outpatient services. Optional services include dental, physical therapy and prescription drugs. To cut costs, mandatory services could be recategorized and covered at a reduced rate. This would be devastating to Hoosiers and providers since it lowers their reimbursements. Indiana already has shortages of care, and one can only imagine what would happen if the required provisions for Medicaid changed. 

 Fourth is the creation of work requirements, and a bill has already been filed for this session. Indiana attempted to implement work requirements last year, but it was blocked by the Biden Administration. 

Fifth is watering down the federal pledge to fund 90% of the Affordable Care expansion. This could also spell the end of Indiana’s HIP program that supports thousands of Hoosiers. 

It’s pitched as an effort to save costs, but thousands would lose their coverage. Over 500,000 Hoosiers would potentially lose health care coverage. Uncompensated coverage would shift the cost to hospitals and providers. Fewer people will go to the doctor and those with existing conditions will worsen trying to avoid enormous medical bills.  

National decisions will have an impact on Hoosier health and our Medicaid program. We’ve been blessed with infusions of federal dollars since COVID-19. Indiana is already struggling without the extra funding, and the prospect of funding reductions will only aggravate our predicament. The majority party leaders have been open with their desire to cut funding, saying our current allocation “keeps them up at night.” At the December Medicaid forecast, the same leadership said our funding challenge “scared them.” Even if federal cuts don’t happen, Indiana’s state funding will need to increase by $500 million.

Every dollar is attached to a person, and we cannot cut more. The supermajority has cut services for medically compromised children, vulnerable adults and families in need of child care. Indiana has saved a minimal amount with horrendous consequences and unnecessary pain. I sincerely hope that efforts to curtail costs will not be cut focused. We have other options, including creatively expanding our revenue, to adequately fund Medicaid. 

We could increase the cigarette tax by $2 per pack. This would add over $100 million a year to our revenue. Another element is promising to stop reverting Medicaid appropriations to the general fund. This has been done for the past several years. We could also fully consider maximizing any unrealized federal funding opportunities that we’re not using. The window is closing to implement these changes before it’s too late. I have seen the legislature act quickly in the past to provide tax relief, so I know it can be done if we have the will to act. 

This session, let’s protect Medicaid and preserve Indiana’s essential health infrastructure. Let's protect Medicaid since it's a vital program for one in three Hoosiers. Let’s lead by example and show other states we’re up to the Medicaid funding challenge. Let’s eliminate our health care deserts. Indiana can become a health care oasis for all Hoosiers regardless of income or health conditions.

Klinker thanks community for condolences, support after husband’s passing

In the weeks since her husband, Victor L. Klinker, passed on Dec. 6, State Rep. Sheila Klinker (D-Lafayette) has received an outpouring of condolences, support and love from across the state. Many individuals and organizations have sent cards and flowers to her Statehouse office and home. 

Rep. Klinker released the following statement: 

“I want to personally thank everyone for their support during this difficult time. I have received countless cards, bouquets and phone calls from Hoosiers across the state. Many people took the time to come to Vic’s services, and it was a blessing to see a cathedral filled for the celebration of my late husband's remarkable life. I would like to express my gratitude to the clergy at St. Mary’s for putting together a beautiful service and for the wonderful eulogy from Father Jakupco. 

“This has been an extremely difficult time, but the kindness I have received has bolstered me. Vic and I were blessed with 62 wonderful years of marriage. I was a day older than Vic, so he would always boast he was married to an older woman. He was known in our community as 'Mr. Sheila Klinker.'  

“Many of the cards and condolences called our marriage a testament to supporting your spouse since he was my greatest cheerleader. Vic was a true statesman, and many people have shared how his service touched their lives. I’m grateful Vic has been remembered for his advocacy, love for his neighbors and his love for his family. Our three special children, Kerri, Kevin and Kelly have been my rock during this time.  

“I will deeply miss my husband who was my loving companion and closest friend. However, these past few weeks have made it clear that I do not bear my grief alone. Thank you for the kindness and support. 

Rep. Tonya Pfaff appointed to key committees focused on supporting working Hoosier families

Entering into her fourth legislative session, State Rep. Tonya Pfaff (D-Terre Haute) has been appointed to three critical committees, positioning her to work on policies that directly benefit working Hoosier families. Pfaff will serve as the ranking minority member on the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, and as a member of both the Committee on Education and the Committee on Ways and Means, which oversees the creation of Indiana’s state budget.

“These committees are at the heart of how we can make life better for working Hoosiers,” Pfaff said. “Whether it’s making sure our schools have the resources they need, ensuring our state budget reflects the priorities of hardworking families, or supporting the farmers and rural communities that drive Indiana’s economy, these appointments allow me to focus on what matters most: helping working Hoosiers get ahead.”

Pfaff emphasized the importance of her role on the Committee on Education, drawing from her 32 years of experience as a public school teacher. “Indiana’s Constitution makes it clear that education is a top priority. I’ve seen firsthand how critical it is to provide our schools with the resources to help students succeed, support our teachers, and allow the time and space to achieve meaningful change. Every Hoosier child deserves access to a world-class education, and I’ll keep working to make that a reality.”

As a member of the Ways and Means Committee, Pfaff plans to focus on creating a state budget that supports the core needs of working families. “This budget session is an opportunity to deliver real results for Hoosiers—fixing roads, investing in schools, growing local businesses, and building a stronger foundation for our state’s economic success. A budget isn’t just numbers on a page; it’s a blueprint for a better future for all Hoosier families.”

Pfaff’s leadership on the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development reflects her commitment to rural communities and the farming families who are vital to Indiana’s economy. “Agriculture is the backbone of our state. By supporting our farmers and ensuring rural communities have access to the critical tools they need, we’re not only preserving a key part of our economy but investing in Indiana’s future,” she said.

The 2025 legislative session is scheduled to begin on Jan. 8.

DeLaney frustrated over refusal to explain Medicaid shortfall

Today (Dec. 17), the State Budget Committee met for the annual Medicaid, Economic and Revenue Forecasts meeting. This is the same annual meeting at which the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration announced that they underestimated the cost of Medicaid by nearly $1 billion in December of 2023. This shortfall was a significant factor in the implementation of the Medicaid waitlist that left tens of thousands of aged and disabled Hoosiers waiting for coverage. During today’s hearing, the state’s expert admitted that his firm received $1 million to conduct the inaccurate forecast.

“The state’s expert who delivered the forecast one year ago showing a billion-dollar mistake conceded that the forecast was ‘wrong’ by about $1 billion but denied that it was an ‘error,'" State Rep. Ed DeLaney (D-Indianapolis) said. "He also confirmed that the reforms that were announced to improve the forecast were known and available before the mistake occurred. After one year of effort, I got an answer but no explanation. 

“Hoosiers have now gone a full year without any explanation for how the FSSA made a $1 billion miscalculation. I got an amendment passed unanimously passed this spring that required a full report of what happened be presented before the Indiana General Assembly. 

“I reached out to FSSA about the status of this report and was informed that it has been addressed in the Medicaid Oversight Committee meeting on Aug. 27. However, that presentation gives virtually no explanation for what caused this colossal failure. 

“Apparently, the public will have to live without an explanation besides the obvious one. Someone didn’t know what they were doing.” 

Porter: ‘Indiana’s revenue reports are no longer defying gravity’

Today, Dec. 17, the State Budget Committee met to discuss the final revenue forecast before the 2025 legislative session. State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement regarding the forecast: 

“Unlike the hit Broadway musical and blockbuster movie ‘Wicked,’ Indiana’s revenue expectations are no longer defying gravity. We’ve utilized our COVID-19 stimulus money, and we’re nearing the end of robust growth in the economy. Our revenues are resetting to relatively normal, sustained growth. 2025 looks promising since aid from the Federal Reserve will give our economy a soft landing. We’ll start to see inflation dissipate and hiring will remain strong. However, by 2026 we’ll see muted growth that will get worse in 2027. 

“Keep in mind this forecast may change dramatically in April. If the Trump administration imposes its tariffs, the Federal Reserve will slow its interest rate reductions as inflation rises. Due to the potential for change, I recommend we discuss the April forecast in March. We’ll need an extra month to assess these changes before the end of the budget session. We need to be watchful for these revenue fluctuations and prepare to modify the 2025 budget. 

“$23 billion for predicted revenue is great, but this will be tempered by human infrastructure needs. Our predicted revenue may not be enough to cover Medicaid’s needs or provide more than a 1% increase in K-12 funding. To make matters worse, Indiana is actively losing usable revenue from cuts in the state income tax. We’re losing hundreds of millions of dollars per year for cuts that may save Hoosiers $50. 

“It’s promising that our revenue is climbing, but there are storm clouds on the horizon. We need to constantly monitor our revenue, remain flexible and stay vigilant. I hope we follow through with my recommendation to discuss the April forecast a month early, so Indiana can craft the best budget possible for Hoosiers.” 

Porter comments on December Medicaid forecast

Today, Dec. 17, the Family Social Services Administration (FSSA) gave its final forecast on Indiana’s Medicaid program before the 2025 session. State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement: 

“Today’s Medicaid forecast wasn't as shocking as last year, but it still had some unfortunate elements. This year’s forecast made it clear that the FSSA’s operations, especially their cost anticipations, need to be substantially reformed. 

“Medicaid costs are projected to increase due to rising costs of care and increased utilization. Indiana isn’t an anomaly when it comes to increased costs. This is something happening across the nation as health care inflation outpaces other expenditures, even short-term inflation for the cost of food. The state funds about a third of the total cost for Medicaid, totaling over $5 billion

“Part of the reason for increased funding is Indiana’s actuary wrongfully estimated how many people would leave the program post-COVID-19. The actuary estimated that 400,000 Hoosiers would leave, which was off by a whopping 200,000. This variance is a major reason why Medicaid needs more state dollars than expected. Other factors pale in comparison to the increased cost projections. 

“Sadly, in response to rising costs, the FSSA is continuing to cut services for our elderly, disabled and children. How much more can we cut from these families? Have we not done enough damage? Other policymakers are misguided if they think we can remedy Medicaid’s rising costs by wringing out every last penny from our neediest Hoosiers. These waitlists and cuts won’t close the funding gap. 

“After many Medicaid Oversight Committee hearings and forecasts, I’m still waiting for the supermajority to step up. We need to make real-world, substantive and constructive suggestions for funding difficulties that don’t involve cutting and limiting services to our most vulnerable.”  

Andrade comments on new BMV Self-Service Kiosk in Highland

Earlier today, the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (IBMV) announced that a BMV Connect Kiosk was installed at the Strack & Van Til grocery store located at 9632 N. Cline Ave., Highland, IN 46322. The kiosk is available for use seven days a week, from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. For more information, visit IN.gov/BMV. 

Rep. Mike Andrade (D-Munster) released the following statement on the BMV’s announcement:

“While this may not have been an ideal solution when faced with the closure of the BMV branch in Griffith, it's a step forward in improving convenience for the residents of Highland, Griffith and surrounding communities. The BMV Connect Kiosk is a welcome addition, offering local access to services and saving time for many. I encourage all residents to take advantage of this new resource to streamline their BMV transactions and make their lives a little easier." 

Garcia Wilburn appointed to committees for 2025 legislative session

For the 2025 legislative session, State Rep. Victoria Garcia Wilburn (D-Fishers) has been appointed to three House committees: Employment, Labor and Pensions; Judiciary; and Public Health. Garcia Wilburn will serve as ranking member of the Judiciary Committee.

"I'm honored to return to the Judiciary Committee again this year, this time in a new leadership role," Garcia Wilburn said. "As ranking member, I look forward to working with my colleagues from both sides of the aisle to make our legal system more efficient for Hoosiers.

"This session, I'll also be returning to the Employment, Labor and Pensions committee. Workers deserve living wages and safe working conditions. Our public retirees, including law enforcement and teachers, deserve the peace of mind that a pension provides after a lifetime of contributing to our state. I will be serving this committee with these Hoosiers in mind.

"As a new member of the Public Health Committee, I hope to highlight the great work Hamilton County is already doing to prioritize public health and help incorporate some of these strategies statewide. Even though Indiana has been making progress on issues like overdose rates, the statistics elsewhere are still jarring – Hoosiers are more likely than the average American to have heart disease and diabetes. It doesn't have to be this way, and I'm ready to continue my work to improve public health here in Indiana."

The 2025 legislative session is set to begin January 8, 2025.

Bauer comments on renters protections bill for Hoosiers

Yesterday, Dec. 11, Indiana State Fire Marshal Steve Jones and South Bend Fire Department Chief Carl Buchanon provided an update on the investigation into the fatal Jan. 21, 2024, LaPorte Avenue house fire in South Bend. The cause of the fire remains undetermined.

However, key findings in the investigation have brought attention to serious safety concerns regarding the conditions of the home at 222 N. LaPorte Ave. In the months leading up to the fire, the residence had failed a federally mandated safety inspection, revealing multiple issues, including documented electrical problems. While investigators could not definitely link the fire’s cause to these electrical issues, the history of safety concerns raises significant questions.

The investigation highlights the need for increased renter protections and safety for renters in Indiana. State Rep. Maureen Bauer (D-South Bend) has previously called attention to the lack of protections for Indiana tenants when landlords fail to maintain safe living conditions. Currently, Indiana law does not allow tenants to withhold rent when their housing conditions are unsafe or fail to meet safety standards.

Neighboring states have established rent escrow accounts, providing tenants with a way to protect themselves and their families, and encourage landlords to make necessary home repairs. These escrow accounts enable tenants to temporarily pay their rent into a legal account rather than directly to the landlord until the necessary unsafe or uninhabitable repairs are made.

Once repairs are made, the rent is released to the landlord. Without such protections in place in Indiana, tenants are left vulnerable to living in poor and unsafe living conditions and may even face retaliation of eviction.

Bauer released the following statement on the recent investigation announcement: 

“While our thoughts remain with the Smith family and members of the South Bend Fire Department, the LaPorte Avenue tragedy can be prevented from happening again in our community. I am committed to fighting for stronger tenant rights and protections, which include rent escrow accounts in Indiana. Our current laws favor landlords even when their properties fail to meet basic safety standards, and this needs to change. For this reason, Sen. Niezgodski and I will be filing companion legislation in the House and Senate to establish escrow accounts for renters in Indiana.

“The results of the LaPorte Ave. fire investigation, and undetermined cause, highlight the urgency of fire prevention measures, particularly during the colder months when fire risks increase. To help mitigate the risk of future tragedies, the South Bend Fire Department continues to offer its FREE smoke detector program to local residents, emphasizing the importance of functioning smoke alarms in all homes.

“The focus now shifts to preventing future tragedies through better legislation, enforcement and protections. As the 2025 legislation approaches, the legislature must prioritize a commitment to creating safe and stable home environments for families across our state, while still supporting landlords who are committed to this effort.”

Dant Chesser appointed to integral House committees

In her first session in the Indiana Statehouse, State Rep. Wendy Dant Chesser (D-Jeffersonville) has been appointed to four committees: Commerce, Small Business and Economic Development; Financial Institutions; Insurance; and Roads and Transportation.

 "We've got our work cut out for us in Indiana, but I look forward to working with colleagues in our caucus and across the aisle to fight for Hoosiers," Dant Chesser said. "From strengthening small businesses and local economies to improving our roads in big cities and rural communities alike, the work we do here has the potential to better the lives of Hoosiers for years to come.  My work on these committees will focus on policies that benefit all Hoosiers in achieving their personal, family and economic goals, and ensuring they can fulfill their dreams here in Southern Indiana."

 The 2025 legislative session is scheduled to begin on January 8.

GiaQuinta comments on FSSA waitlist

Today, the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) announced a waitlist for the Indiana Childcare Development Fund and On My Way Pre-K voucher programs, effective immediately. New applicants will be automatically put on the waitlist until further notice.

House Democratic Leader Phil GiaQuinta (D-Fort Wayne) issued the following statement regarding the announcement:

“The FSSA projected today that roughly 20,000 children and families will be added to the waitlist over the next year, with thousands more losing eligibility. This blow comes after Indiana was ranked worst in the United States for access to childcare, with zero Indiana counties currently meeting the threshold for adequate access to care.

“This waitlist is a result of all federal childcare funds being used to their capacities here in the state. If you recall, Republican leadership told us recently that Hoosiers shouldn’t look to the state to solve this monumental problem. Now, tens of thousands of families risk losing access to childcare. As state lawmakers, we can’t continue to shrug our shoulders and tell Hoosiers to wait for the federal government to come to their aid. It’s time we put in the work. This budget session, we in the House Democratic Caucus plan to do whatever we can to help more working Hoosiers access affordable, safe childcare for their children.

“While state Republicans continue to tout their supposed dedication to growing Indiana’s economy, many working parents know that statewide economic growth – and individual economic security – cannot happen without adequate access to childcare. House Democrats are ready to put in the work, and I’m calling on the majority party to fulfill their obligation to Hoosiers and work with us this session to address our childcare crisis.”

Porter: ‘FSSA’s heartbreaking waitlists are the result of fiscal cliffs’

Today, the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) announced a waitlist for the Indiana Child Care Development Fund (CCDF) voucher program, effective immediately. This waitlist will only affect new applicants since the FSSA has promised to prioritize funding for families already enrolled in the program. 

State Rep. Gregory W. Porter (D-Indianapolis) released the following statement: 

“I’m dismayed yet another waitlist is being implemented for vital services, but I can’t say I’m surprised. The CCDF voucher program supports Hoosiers needing affordable, quality child care. We have parents who want to participate in the workforce, but they can only do so if their children are provided for during their shifts. The bottom line is families in need will be waitlisted for assistance until the next federal fiscal year. Indiana claims to be a 'State that Works,' but there’s little care for Hoosiers’ life-work balance.  

“We have 73,000 families currently in this program, and the high cost of care means it's in high demand. The FSSA plans to freeze this program’s expansion until it returns to a 'normal' base level of 50,000 families. Shooting for only 50,000 families is insanely low since federal law permits enrollment of 212,000 families. Even Indiana’s existing eligibility threshold would allow for the enrollment of 125,000 families. 

”These announcements have been par for the course lately. Medicaid is running out of federal funding, and the majority has refused to provide any supplemental state funding. Since 2020 as part of the COVID-19 response, we received $1.2 billion in one-time federal funding, some of which was used for CCDF vouchers. This is what we call a 'fiscal cliff.' We have a funding imbalance between demand and budget. The FSSA apparently awarded these slots with supplemental, one-time funding knowing it wouldn’t last.

“Hopefully, as we start a new budget cycle, we can address these fiscal cliffs that are harming Hoosier families seeking vital assistance. It’s important that the state properly funds programs that support employment and economic competition.”